Overview
Arabis nova is a matforming alpine rockery in the genus Arabis, part of the Brassicaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Arabis nova grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include gravel garden, rock garden, patio and container plants and wildlife gardens.
About
Arabis nova is a mat-forming alpine rockery plant belonging to the genus Arabis, known for its evergreen foliage and racemes of four-petalled flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple. This cultivar thrives in full sun and is suitable for east, south, or west-facing aspects, tolerating both exposed and sheltered conditions. It prefers well-drained soils, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, across a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. Hardy to UK zone H6, Arabis nova is ideal for gravel and rock gardens, patios, containers, and wildlife-friendly spaces, with interest extending through summer and autumn.
About the genus
Arabis, or rockcress, is a genus of flowering plants, within the family Brassicaceae.
Wikipedia contributors, "Arabis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Arabis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Arabis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Arabis nova size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Alpine Rockery
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Gravel garden, Rock garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Arabis nova
- Propagation
- Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer, or by division
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to arabis midge and flea beetles
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to downy mildews, white blister, and virus diseases
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Arabis nova?
Arabis nova prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Arabis nova need?
Arabis nova is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Arabis nova hardy in the UK?
Arabis nova has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Arabis nova?
Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer, or by division.