Nuttall'S Rockcress
Arabis nuttallii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
ID, MT, UT, WA and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Nuttall's rockcress is a compact native perennial that forms low mats of small leaves topped with clusters of white flowers in spring. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sunny locations and requires minimal water once established. It works well as a ground cover in rock gardens or between stepping stones.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nuttall'S 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.
- Very small size may appear sparse or unfinished
- Can look dormant or dead outside blooming season
- May be mistaken for weeds by HOA boards
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract native bees and small butterflies during the early growing season. Its compact size makes it particularly valuable for smaller pollinators that prefer low-growing nectar sources.
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.
Does Nuttall'S Rockcress fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.