California Rockcress

(Boechera californica)

California Rockcress (Boechera californica)

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant
Boechera californica image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward

Climate Requirements

Precipitation 14" - 31"
High Temp. 82°F - 93°F
Low Temp. 30°F - 38°F

Summary

Boechera californica, commonly known as California Rockcress, is a perennial herb native to the chaparral, oak woodlands, and rocky slopes of Western North America, particularly in California. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching heights of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and a spread of 0.5-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters). The plant forms a basal rosette of leaves from which emerge erect flowering stems. Its flowers, which appear in the spring, are small but showy, with four petals that can be white to pink in color.

California Rockcress is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making it suitable for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and native plant landscapes. It is also appreciated for its delicate flowers that attract pollinators. This species is adapted to full sun or part shade and prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal water once established. While generally disease-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Chaparral, oak woodlands, and rocky slopes of Western North America, particularly in California

Other Names

Common Names: California Boechera

Scientific Names: Boechera californica, Arabis sparsiflora var. californica

GBIF Accepted Name: Boechera californica