Collins' Rockcress

Collins' Rockcress (Boechera collinsii) is a low-growing perennial plant native to rocky and sandy, acidic soils of the western United States. It prefers full sun and should be watered regularly but only when the soil is moderately dry. During the growing season, water Collins' Rockcress once weekly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In the winter, water much less often, only when the soil begins to feel dry several inches below the surface. If the plant is in a container, you may need to water more often, as the container can dry out more quickly.

Collins' Rockcress (Boechera collinsii) does best in full sunlight. During spring and summer, 6-8 hours of direct sunlight are ideal for this species. During fall and winter, however, it needs 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade for short periods of time, but the thriving vegetation of this plant requires full sun for optimum growth.

Collins' Rockcress should be pruned in late spring or early summer, just after it has finished blooming. Prune the plant by snipping off the spent flower stalks with sharp, clean scissors to improve the plant’s appearance. Prune back the main stem to 2 to 3 inches in length. Prune any stray branches that have grown out of the plant’s shape by cutting them back to the main stem. To increase the plant’s overall fullness and bushy appearance, pinch out the smaller, new shoots. Doing this will also encourage bushy new growth. Finally, for larger plants, lightly prune the sides to remove any dead or straggly looking stems.