Basket-of-gold

Basket-of-gold is a low, spreading evergreen perennial with soft gray-green leaves and a concentrated spring display of bright yellow flowers. It is a useful ground cover for rock gardens, gravel beds, border edges, and the tops of walls, where its spreading stems can soften stone without requiring rich soil. ## Growing conditions The [North Carolina Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/aurinia-saxatilis/) describes plants about 6–12 inches tall and 1–1.5 feet wide, suited to full sun and very well-drained sandy or rocky soil. It reports a four-to-six-week spring flowering period and USDA zones 3a–7b; the plant can struggle in hotter zones. Give it open air and drainage, and avoid sites that remain wet through summer. It tolerates dry conditions once established, but this does not remove the need for occasional water during establishment. [UMass Extension also lists Aurinia saxatile among drought-tolerant perennials once established](https://www.umass.edu/agriculture-food-environment/ht/landscape/fact-sheets/drought-tolerant-perennials). ## Garden use and seasonal care Use it in small groups or as a low edging plant where the yellow flowers can be seen at close range. The gray-green foliage remains useful after bloom, especially in cooler summer climates. Plants can be short-lived, so allow some seedlings to replace older clumps if conditions suit them. Aphids may appear on new growth; inspect plants during spring. ## Maintenance After flowering, trim off the spent stems to keep the mound compact and encourage fresh foliage. Water new plantings until rooted, then water sparingly and only as needed during prolonged dry spells.