Lilacbush (Aubrieta deltoidea): A Charming Mediterranean Groundcover for American Gardens
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance groundcover that puts on a spectacular spring show, lilacbush might just catch your eye. This cheerful little perennial carpets the ground with masses of purple and violet blooms, creating a delightful tapestry that’s hard to resist.
What is Lilacbush?
Lilacbush (Aubrieta deltoidea) is a perennial groundcover that originally hails from the Mediterranean region of Southern Europe. Don’t let the name fool you – it’s not related to the large lilac shrubs you might know. This plant stays low and spreads wide, forming dense mats of small, evergreen foliage topped with clusters of four-petaled flowers in spring.
Where Does Lilacbush Grow?
As a non-native species that has naturalized in some areas, lilacbush has established itself in scattered locations across the United States, including California, Missouri, and Utah. It reproduces on its own in these areas and tends to persist without human intervention.
The Appeal of Lilacbush
What makes gardeners fall for this little groundcover? Here are the highlights:
- Spectacular spring bloom display with purple, violet, or sometimes pink flowers
- Low-growing, mat-forming habit perfect for cascading over walls
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round interest
- Drought tolerant once established
- Early bloomer that provides nectar for spring pollinators
Garden Uses and Design Ideas
Lilacbush shines in several garden settings:
- Rock gardens: Its natural habitat makes it perfect for tucking between stones
- Alpine gardens: Thrives in well-draining, gravelly conditions
- Mediterranean-style landscapes: Pairs beautifully with other drought-tolerant plants
- Wall plantings: Creates stunning cascading effects over retaining walls
- Border edges: Forms neat, colorful edges along pathways
Growing Conditions
Lilacbush is surprisingly easy to please, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. Here’s what it needs to flourish:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade (morning sun is ideal)
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential – it won’t tolerate soggy conditions
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, but appreciates occasional watering
- pH: Slightly alkaline soil is preferred, but it adapts to various pH levels
Planting and Care Tips
Getting lilacbush established is straightforward:
- Plant in spring or early fall for best establishment
- Space plants 12-15 inches apart for groundcover effect
- Water regularly the first season, then reduce frequency
- Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate the plant
- Apply a light mulch of gravel or small stones rather than organic mulch
Benefits for Wildlife
While not a native species, lilacbush does offer some benefits to local wildlife. Its early spring blooms provide nectar for bees and butterflies when few other flowers are available, making it a valuable early-season pollinator plant.
Should You Plant Lilacbush?
Lilacbush can be a lovely addition to the right garden setting, especially if you’re creating a Mediterranean or alpine-style landscape. However, since it’s not native to North America, consider pairing it with or substituting native groundcovers that provide similar benefits.
Some excellent native alternatives to consider include wild ginger (Asarum canadense), creeping phlox (Phlox subulata), or kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), depending on your region and growing conditions.
The Bottom Line
Lilacbush offers reliable color, easy care, and drought tolerance – qualities that many gardeners appreciate. While it’s not native to our continent, it’s not considered invasive either. If you choose to grow it, you’ll be rewarded with cheerful spring blooms and a tidy groundcover that asks for very little in return. Just remember to complement it with native plants that support local ecosystems!
