Aurinia saxatilis, commonly known as Basket of Gold, is a low-growing perennial that has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit. With a golden carpet of flowers lasting up to six weeks, this attractive evergreen captures the eye and attracts pollinators with its sweet nectar. It prefers full sun, but requires afternoon shade in hot climates. It is a low maintenance garden bedding plant that can bring your living space indoors and out.
Aurinia saxatilis is a member of the Balsaminaceae family and is a perennial species. it’s origin is thought to be from the Himalayas.
Meaning and Symbolism
The name “Basket of Gold” is derived from its large clusters of yellow flowers resembling a golden basket. This flower is a symbol of abundance and wealth. In some cultures, it is also thought to bring good luck to whoever possesses it.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
Throughout history, Basket of Gold has been associated with different spiritual aspects and was even used as a form of prayer. According to mythology, Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of Love, used the flower to adorn her hair during her marriage to Hephaestus. It is also said to have been used by fairies to decorate the fairy gardens.
Flower varieties and their defining characteristics
Basket of Gold, or Aurinia saxatilis, comes in many different varieties, each with their own defining characteristics.
The Aurinia saxatilis species is a low-growing evergreen perennial with bright yellow, daisy-like blooms. The Aurinia saxatilis ‘Compactum’, also known as Aurinia saxatilis ‘Compactus’, is a dwarf variety. It reaches about 10 inches in height and forms a mounded shape, featuring beautiful yellow blooms. ‘Limelight’ is an evergreen, mounding plant that is quite similar in form to the ‘Compactum’ but with larger, more yellow blooms.
How to Plant
When planting Aurinia saxatilis, be sure to pick a location with full sun, but also remember to provide some afternoon shade in hot climates. This flower requires well-draining, slightly basic soil that you can achieve by blending two parts of potting soil and one part of garden soil to create a nutrient-rich planting area. Basket of Gold prefers soil that is moist, so keep your soil consistently moist but not soggy.
How to Pot and Repot
Your plant’s soil should be well-drained and slightly basic, so an appropriate potting soil will be necessary for both potting and repotting; you can use a commercially available soil mix or mix your own blend. When first potting or repotting the plant, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the plant’s current container. Before filling the new pot with potting soil, be sure to line the bottom with a few inches of gravel to help with drainage.
How to Prune
Pruning is an excellent way to keep Basket of Gold healthy and encourage new blooms. During early spring, once the flowers fade, remove the spent flower heads. This will also help you keep the growing area looking neat. Prune the plant down to a few inches tall this time of year to encourage new growth. In the late summer, cut back the foliage to the ground if you want a tidier look, but don’t do this if you’re looking for a more natural appearance.
How to Propagate
Propagation of Aurinia saxatilis is easiest by division. In the early spring, dig up the plant’s roots and divide them into smaller clumps. Each clump should have several good sized roots and at least one healthy shoot with buds. Replant these divisions in the desired location and mulch with a thin layer of compost to help retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Common Pests and Diseases
Basket of Gold can suffer from a variety of common pest and disease issues. The most common pests are aphids and spider mites. To help reduce the chances of these pests, keep theplant free of debris and make sure there is good air circulation around it. Other common diseases include powdery mildew, which can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering, and root rot, which can be prevented by planting in soil with good drainage and watering only when necessary.
Three Frequently Asked Questions about Aurinia Saxatilis
Q1. How big does Basket of Gold grow?
A1. Basket of Gold is a low-growing perennial that grows to 10-12 inches in height and 18-24 inches in width.
Q2. How much sun does Aurinia saxatilis need?
A2. Aurinia saxatilis prefers full sun, but afternoon shade in hot climates is needed.
Q3. What type of soil should I use for Basket of Gold?
A3. Basket of Gold prefers well-draining, slightly basic soil. You can achieve this by mixing two parts of potting soil and one part of garden soil. Make sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Fact Sheet
| Basket of Gold | Aurinia saxatilis |
| Family | Balsaminaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 10-12in tall, 18-24in wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun, afternoon shade in hot climates |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, slightly basic |
| Soil pH | 7.0 to 8.0 |
| Bloom Time | Late Spring – Early Summer |
| Flower Color | Bright Yellow |
| Hardiness Zones | 3 to 8 |
| Native Area | Himalayas |
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