Species basket of gold
Green foliage covered in golden-yellow flowers.

basket of gold

Aurinia saxatilis 'Gold Dust'

Also Known As - basket-of-gold,gold dust alyssum,gold dust alyssum
The 'Basket of Gold' or Aurinia saxatilis 'Gold Dust' is truly a stunning sight. This plant features a profusion of bright gold flowers that bloom in the spring, surrounded by gray-green evergreen foliage. It's an extremely hardy species, so it can tolerate sun or partial shade and can even withstand occasional drought. Its ability to propagate from seed makes it an easy plant to grow and to expand its range in landscaping. It also attracts pollinators, making it an invaluable addition to any garden. It's an ideal choice for rockeries, slopes, or gardens with soils that are less than ideal, and its long-lasting blooms make it a vibrant addition to any landscape.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Soil:

Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Summer Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

gold,green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Easy

watering

Basket of Gold (Aurinia saxatilis 'Gold Dust') grows best in moist, well-drained soil and thrives in full sun. Water regularly and deeply, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. During hot summer months, plants may need to be watered more frequently. In the summer, plants may need to be watered 2-3 times a week in dry climates. In the winter, water the plants sparingly and only when the soil starts to feel dry.

sunlight

Basket of gold (Aurinia saxatilis 'Gold Dust') needs full sun for 6–8 hours per day. Morning sun is best, as it provides the highest intensity throughout the day. This plant will not do well in shady conditions and will need at least 6 hours of direct sun exposure per day to stimulate growth and flowering. Although warmer climates may allow for more sun, it is important to ensure that the soil in which the plant is grown does not dry out quickly due to an excess of sunlight. It is best to place the plant in a location that receives light from 9am – 3pm, with some afternoon or morning shade where possible.

pruning

Basket of Gold (Aurinia saxatilis 'Gold Dust') should be pruned lightly in late spring or early summer, after flowering. Pruning should be minimal, with only dead or damaged stems and leaves removed. Cutting back the plants too hard can diminish flowering in the current year, reduce foliage color, and damage the stems. Deadheading spent flowers can promote new blooms and healthy plant growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Aurinia saxatilis 'Gold Dust' typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Aurinia saxatilis 'Gold Dust' is typically in late June or early July.

Hardiness Map