A compact, mat-forming evergreen perennial with vivid magenta-red flowers over soft grey-green foliage in spring. Height 10cm. Spread 50cm. Full sun, moist, well drained soil. Hardy.
Aubrieta ‘Royal Red’ is a vibrant, low-growing perennial that adds a burst of vivid magenta-red flowers to any garden. With its mat-forming habit and evergreen foliage, it’s the perfect choice for filling in gaps at the front of borders or spilling over walls. Follow this guide to ensure your Aubrieta thrives and blooms beautifully every spring.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Aubrieta ‘Royal Red’ is in early spring, after the last frost has passed and the soil begins to warm. Planting in spring ensures the roots have time to establish before the growing season, resulting in a healthier plant with more vibrant blooms.
Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant in early autumn, allowing the plant to settle in before the cold weather sets in. This also encourages strong root development, leading to a more robust plant the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Aubrieta thrives in full sun, though it can tolerate light shade. For the best results, choose a location where the plant will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This will ensure that your Aubrieta produces an abundance of flowers each spring.
Soil: Aubrieta prefers moist, well-drained soil. It does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so it’s crucial to plant it in an area with good drainage to prevent root rot. For optimal growth, enrich the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve both fertility and drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is approximately twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of the plant. This will allow the roots to spread and establish properly.
Soil Preparation: Mix in compost or other organic materials to improve the soil’s structure. This will enhance drainage and provide the nutrients Aubrieta needs for strong growth.
Planting: Place the root ball of the plant into the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant to eliminate air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots and encourage establishment. Ensure the planting area drains well to avoid standing water, which can cause root rot.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Aubrieta is drought-tolerant, but it still benefits from regular watering during dry spells. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root issues.
Dormant Season: In winter, Aubrieta goes dormant and requires minimal watering. Only water if the soil is exceptionally dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to give your Aubrieta a strong start to the growing season. This will encourage healthy growth and abundant flowers.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can help sustain the plant’s energy and promote continued flowering throughout the season.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. This also helps prolong the flowering period.
Autumn Pruning: After the final bloom of the season, lightly trim back any dead or damaged growth. Aubrieta doesn’t require heavy pruning, but removing dead material will prepare it for the winter and encourage new growth in the spring.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the plant in spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic materials like bark or compost for the best results.
Winter: In colder months, add a protective layer of mulch to insulate the roots and protect them from frost. This helps ensure your Aubrieta survives through winter and is ready to thrive again in spring.
Supporting the Plant
Aubrieta ‘Royal Red’ is a compact, low-growing plant that generally does not need staking. However, if grown in a windy location or on a wall, it may benefit from some support to prevent damage from harsh weather.
Final Tips
Aubrieta ‘Royal Red’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that thrives with minimal care. By planting it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, following a regular watering and feeding schedule, and pruning as needed, your Aubrieta ‘Royal Red’ will reward you with vibrant magenta-red flowers every spring. Incorporate Aubrieta ‘Royal Red’ into your garden for a burst of colour that will add charm and beauty to your outdoor space year after year.
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Deborah N. (verified owner) –