How to Grow Basket of Gold
iNaturalist
Basket of Gold
Aurinia saxatilis
flowerAurinia saxatilis, commonly called Basket of Gold, is a low-growing perennial ground cover known for its brilliant yellow flower clusters that bloom in spring. This drought-tolerant alpine plant forms dense mounds of silvery-green foliage and is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and containers. It cascades beautifully over walls and raised beds, creating a striking golden display.
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Example Basket of Gold timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Basket of Gold
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Basket of Gold blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, best performance in cooler zones 3-7
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with first true leaves appearing within 1-2 weeks; silver-green foliage begins to develop
Keep soil barely moist but not wet; provide bright light; thin seedlings to prevent damping off; transplant to individual containers at 2-3 true leaves
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeks after transplanting or until flower buds formPlant develops dense mounding habit with silvery-green foliage; no flowers yet; steady leaf and stem expansion
Gradually harden off transplants before planting outdoors; water moderately; do not overwater; pinch back occasionally to encourage bushiness
Bud Formation
1-2 weeksDense clusters of yellow flower buds appear at stem tips; foliage remains silvery-green beneath emerging blooms
Ensure full sun exposure for best flowering; reduce nitrogen fertilizer; maintain moderate watering; do not overwater at this stage
Post-Bloom & Summer
May through SeptemberFlowers fade; silvery-green foliage remains attractive throughout summer and into fall; plant becomes dormant in hot summers
Cut back plant by one-third after flowering to maintain compact shape; reduce watering in summer; protect from excessive heat and humidity; deadhead any remaining flowers
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Use row covers on young plants; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestations occur; remove affected leaves
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Prevent by ensuring excellent drainage; do not overwater; remove affected plants; improve soil aeration with perlite or sand
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Ensure good air circulation; reduce overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or fungicide if severe; thin crowded growth
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryAurinia flowers are edible with a mild, slightly peppery flavor and can be used as garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. They add visual appeal and subtle flavor to spring dishes. [source]
Cut Flowers & Dried Arrangements
CraftThe clustered golden flowers are excellent for fresh spring bouquets and dry beautifully for long-lasting dried flower arrangements and crafts. They retain their color well when air-dried. [source]
Ground Cover & Landscape Design
HouseholdAurinia is a premier alpine ground cover for rock gardens, raised beds, stone walls, and borders, providing spring color and attractive silvery foliage year-round. Its cascading habit and low maintenance make it ideal for difficult sites. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe abundant spring flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making Aurinia a valuable early-season nectar source after winter. It supports beneficial insects during their emergence. [source]
Container & Alpine Rock Garden Specimen
HouseholdAurinia thrives in containers, troughs, and alpine gardens with excellent drainage, making it perfect for patios, terraces, and specialized alpine plant displays. Its compact form and vivid spring blooms make it a standout specimen. [source]
Harvest Tips
Aurinia is grown as an ornamental, not harvested for food. Deadhead flowers by removing spent blooms to extend flowering season and keep plant tidy. For seed collection, allow some flowers to dry and produce seed pods, then harvest dried seed clusters in late spring/early summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Aurinia saxatilis is native to rocky mountainous regions of southern Europe and has been cultivated since the 16th century, making it one of the oldest garden perennials.
- 🌱 Its common name 'Basket of Gold' refers to the cascading golden-yellow flowers that literally overflow from raised beds and walls like a basket spilling treasures.
- 🌱 The plant is extremely drought-tolerant due to its silvery, waxy-coated leaves that reduce water loss—an adaptation to its native alpine rocky habitat where water is scarce.
Gardening Terms
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