Common Whitlowgrass
Draba verna
Also listed as Erophila verna, Drabella verna
Also known as Spring Whitlowgrass, Vernal Whitlow-grass, Common Draba
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A diminutive winter or spring annual wildflower with tiny white flowers on delicate stems, commonly found in disturbed areas and rocky ground. Valued for early season color and minimal care requirements.
Why grow it
Draba verna germinates and flowers earlier than most spring annuals, making it useful for bridging bare ground in late winter to early spring. Compared to other diminutive wildflowers, it requires minimal soil preparation and thrives in poor, compacted, or rocky sites where larger plants struggle. Its small stature and self-seeding habit make it practical for naturalizing in disturbed areas without ongoing management.
Watch out for
Because it is an annual, established populations depend on reliable self-seeding, which can be inconsistent if flowering stems are removed or if soil is heavily mulched before seed drop. In areas with consistent moisture and rich soil, volunteer seedlings may appear in subsequent seasons in unexpected locations, requiring selective removal if desired.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Brassicaceae
Native Range
Europe and Mediterranean
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A diminutive winter or spring annual wildflower with tiny white flowers on delicate stems, commonly found in disturbed areas and rocky ground. Valued for early season color and minimal care requirements.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Common Whitlowgrass grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Draba verna germinates and flowers earlier than most spring annuals, making it useful for bridging bare ground in late winter to early spring. Compared to other diminutive wildflowers, it requires minimal soil preparation and thrives in poor, compacted, or rocky sites where larger plants struggle. Its small stature and self-seeding habit make it practical for naturalizing in disturbed areas without ongoing management.
Watch out for
Because it is an annual, established populations depend on reliable self-seeding, which can be inconsistent if flowering stems are removed or if soil is heavily mulched before seed drop. In areas with consistent moisture and rich soil, volunteer seedlings may appear in subsequent seasons in unexpected locations, requiring selective removal if desired.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Brassicaceae
Native Range
Europe and Mediterranean
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar ground covers you might consider:
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