Aurinia Saxatilis

Basket-of-gold is a classic spring rock-garden plant, forming a low evergreen mound of softly hairy grey-green leaves that becomes almost hidden beneath masses of brilliant yellow flowers. The display lasts for several weeks and is especially effective spilling over walls, edging gravel paths or cascading between large stones. Formerly known as Alyssum saxatile, it is native to rocky mountain country in central and south-eastern Europe. Drought tolerant and attractive to bees, it thrives in full sun and lean soil but quickly declines in heavy or waterlogged ground. A light trim after flowering keeps the cushion neat.