Hairy Rockcress
Arabis hirsuta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–24" H × 2"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
WA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hairy rockcress is a compact perennial wildflower that forms low clumps of fuzzy, gray-green leaves. It produces small white flowers in upright clusters from April through June, creating a delicate spring display.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hairy Rockcress takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears weedy and unkempt due to hairy foliage texture
- May look scraggly after blooming period
- Too wild-looking for formal landscaping standards
Wildlife value
This native plant attracts bees and beetles during its spring blooming period. The flowers provide nectar for early-season pollinators when few other plants are in bloom.
Common questions
- How much sun does Hairy Rockcress need?
- Hairy Rockcress grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Hairy Rockcress bloom?
- Hairy Rockcress blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Hairy Rockcress native?
- Hairy Rockcress (Arabis hirsuta) is native to WA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Hairy Rockcress attract?
- Hairy Rockcress draws bees and beetles.
- Is Hairy Rockcress HOA-friendly?
- Hairy Rockcress takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Hairy Rockcress? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz