False Rockcress Aubrieta Axcent Lilac = 'Audelip' (PBR) (Axcent Series)
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ABOUT
The Aubrieta Axcent Lilac, belonging to the Axcent Series, displays a profusion of delicate lilac flowers. These blooms are known for their vibrant hue and small size, presenting a mass of color that can create a stunning visual effect. The foliage of this particular cultivar is a lush green, which forms a low cushion or mat-like appearance, providing a beautiful contrast against the pastel flowers. Each flower typically has four petals that create a cross shape, characteristic of the species. The plant blooms in the spring, and it often enjoys a lengthy flowering period that can extend into early summer, depending on environmental conditions. The leaves are small and oblong, sometimes having a slightly hairy surface, and they remain evergreen, giving the plant year-round interest even when it is not in bloom. The Aubrieta Axcent Lilac is often used in garden designs as ground cover because of its spreading habit and vivid floral display. It is also popular for rock gardens, edges of pathways, or cascading over walls, bringing a splash of color to different landscaping elements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Brassicaceae
Synonyms
False Rock Cress, Aubrieta
Common names
Aubrieta Axcent Lilac = 'Audelip' (PBR) (Axcent Series)
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Aubrieta Axcent Lilac = 'Audelip' (PBR) (Axcent Series) is Aubrieta. Aubrieta is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no documented toxicity or specific symptoms associated with ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause a reaction, and it is generally recommended not to consume plants not meant for human consumption.
To pets
The common name for Aubrieta Axcent Lilac = 'Audelip' (PBR) (Axcent Series) is Aubrieta. Aubrieta is not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There are no well-documented symptoms of poisoning from ingesting this plant. However, it is always wise to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants as they might cause gastrointestinal upset due to the ingestion of non-food items, or individual animals might have specific sensitivities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lilac
Height
0.33 feet (10 cm)
Spread
1.64 feet (50 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Southern Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Low maintenance: The plant is easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Attracts pollinators: Flowers attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, promoting pollination.
- Ground cover: Its creeping habit makes it ideal for covering bare spots and suppressing weeds.
- Vibrant color: Adds visual appeal to gardens with its lilac flowers, enhancing the aesthetic of landscapes.
- Rock gardens: It's particularly suited for rock gardens due to its alpine origins and ability to grow in crevices.
- Erosion control: The plant's root system can help stabilize soil on slopes, preventing erosion.
- Seasonal interest: Provides early spring color when many other plants are not yet in bloom.
- Easy to propagate: Can be propagated easily from cuttings or division, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings.
- Long blooming period: The plant typically has a long flowering period, offering a lasting display of color.
- Edging plant: Suitable for borders and edging pathways, framing garden beds effectively.
- Cold hardy: Adapts to cold climates and can survive frost, making it suitable for a variety of temperate regions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Art and Crafts: The vibrant lilac hue of the Aubrieta flowers can be used in pressed flower art or to naturally dye fabrics, offering a non-toxic coloring agent.
- Photography Prop: Aubrieta serves as an exquisite background in garden photography due to its blanket of color, enhancing the visual appeal of photos.
- Garden Design: Aubrieta can be used in rock gardens or as an edging plant to create a living border that highlights garden pathways or delineates garden sections.
- Ecological Support: As an early bloomer, Aubrieta provides a valuable nectar source for pollinators like bees and butterflies in the spring garden.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not a common edible, the flowers can be used as a decorative garnish for salads and desserts, adding color and a mild peppery flavor.
- Roof Planting: Due to its hardiness and low maintenance, Aubrieta can be used in green roofing projects to provide insulation and aesthetic quality.
- Landscape Painting: Because of its picturesque quality, Aubrieta often inspires artists to include it in landscape paintings and garden depictions.
- Natural Confetti: Dried Aubrieta petals can serve as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations, weddings, or other festivities.
- Erosion Control: Planting Aubrieta on slopes can help prevent soil erosion due to its dense matting habit—roots help to stabilize the ground.
- Terrarium Scenes: Small-scale Aubrieta plants can be incorporated into terrariums to create a miniature landscape, adding a splash of color and texture.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Aubrieta is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Aubrieta is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: Aubrieta, also known as purple rock cress, commonly grows in rocky areas suggesting its ability to thrive in challenging conditions and symbolizing perseverance.
- Beauty: The lilac color of 'Audelip' (PBR) is often associated with beauty and elegance, making it a symbol of natural aesthetics.
- Survival: As a plant that can grow in harsh environments, Aubrieta exemplifies survival and adaptability.
- Grounding: Due to its low-growing nature for ground cover, it symbolizes stability and being grounded.
WaterFalse Rock Cress requires moderate watering, generally once a week should be sufficient, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the growing season, aim for about one gallon per square yard each week, adjusting as necessary for heat and rainfall. Less water is required during the dormant season; reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on weather conditions. It's important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Always check the top inch of soil for moisture before watering again.
LightThe best light conditions for False Rock Cress are full sun to partial shade. It thrives in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. However, in regions with very hot summers, a location with some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from excessive heat stress.
TemperatureFalse Rock Cress prefers cooler temperatures and will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but may be damaged or killed by prolonged exposure to temperatures below this. It can handle up to about 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but it's important to provide afternoon shade if temperatures regularly exceed this.
PruningPruning False Rock Cress is necessary to maintain its shape, encourage denser growth, and remove any dead or spent flowers. The best time to prune is immediately after flowering, usually in late spring. Lightly trim back the plant to promote a second flush of blooms and prevent it from becoming leggy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRock Cress requires well-draining soil with some organic matter. A mix incorporating equal parts garden soil, compost, and gritty material like perlite or sand is ideal. Maintain soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
RepottingRock Cress is often grown as a perennial ground cover and does not typically require repotting. In containers, repot every 2-3 years or as needed.
Humidity & MistingRock Cress thrives best in dry to average humidity conditions and can tolerate drought once established.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, with good air flow and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, in well-draining soil and spacing of 15-30 cm.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Aubrieta Axcent Lilac, commonly known as Aubrieta, begins its life cycle as a seed, which when sown and exposed to the appropriate temperature and moisture conditions, germinates and sprouts into a seedling. The seedling stage is marked by the emergence of the first set of true leaves after the initial cotyledons and is followed by a period of vegetative growth where the plant establishes its root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing characteristic lilac-colored flowers that attract pollinators and are typically seen in spring to early summer. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit pods that contain seeds, completing the cycle of reproduction. The plant enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, exhibiting less growth and conserving energy. With the onset of favorable growing conditions, growth resumes, and if the plant is a perennial variety, it will regrow from its established root system, continuing its life cycle for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The Aubrieta Axcent Series, specifically the Aubrieta Axcent Lilac 'Audelip', is most commonly propagated by seed or cuttings. However, for home gardeners and enthusiasts, the simplest and most efficient method is stem cuttings. Cuttings are typically taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. A healthy stem of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) with several leaves is selected and the lower leaves are removed. The cut end is then dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth and planted in a moist potting mix. The cuttings should be placed in a warm, well-lit area but out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching. It usually takes a few weeks for cuttings to root, after which they can be transplanted to their final location.
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