Alyssum saxatilis Compactum

Aurinia saxatilis or Alyssum saxatile 'Compactum' is a particularly compact bush of gold, ideal for decorating rockeries or the top of walls with a golden mantle in spring. It is a spreading perennial plant, shorter than most, with foliage composed of small evergreen and downy leaves, of a greyish green colour. They are covered in spring under an abundant golden cloud, made up of a multitude of small, very bright yellow flowers. Dazzling, this bush of gold is essential in rocky soil.

Aurinia saxatilis is also known by the Latin name Alyssum saxatile, and the common names of Gold Basket or Yellow Alyssum. This small perennial plant of the Brassicaceae family is actually related to mustard and cabbage. Native to mountainous and rocky regions of Central and Southeast Europe, this species is the only one commonly encountered in cultivation. It has given rise to some very interesting cultivars, including the 'Compactum' variety, which is particularly compact.

The Yellow Alyssum 'Compactum' forms low, spreading tufts reaching 15 cm (6in) in flower and 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16in) in width. Its stems become woody at the base over time. Its small leaves are evergreen in winter. They are oval in shape and a greyish green colour. The flowering takes place in April-May, for about 3 weeks, depending on the climate and growing conditions. If care is taken to remove faded flower stalks, the flowering can reoccur in autumn. The tiny flowers are grouped in very numerous corymbs (small clusters) that completely cover the plant.

Succeeding forsythias and accompanying tulips, which are widely used in rock gardens, this Gold Dust can establish itself in all well-drained soils, even stony and rather dry ones. They are perfect plants for covering the top of walls and the spaces between stones, just like aubrietas and bellflowers. They dress the base of perennials (wallflowers, hollyhocks) and small bushes such as shrubby salvias, lavenders or Caryopteris. They can also be planted along a path, in well-drained soil. They also perform very well in pots and containers.