SafePlants

Arabis lignifera: Desert Rockcress

Also known as Boechera lignifera.

Considerations for Pets

• Members of the Brassicaceae family are sometimes associated with glucosinolates, which may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is commonly found in desert areas and canyons, so children exploring these environments may encounter it.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arabis lignifera A. Nelson (accepted name)
• Synonym: Boechera lignifera (A. Nelson) W.A. Weber
• Common Names: Desert rockcress, Prince's rock cress, Beautiful rock cress, Woody branched rockcress, Owens Valley rockcress
• Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)
• Genus: Arabis, Boechera, Sibara

Distribution and Habitat

• Found in the Mojave Desert, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Arizona's Sonoran Desert, Nevada desert around Mesquite, Bunkerville and Gold Butte Nevada, and other desert highlands.
• Commonly found in canyons, washes, and desert hillsides.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A forb/herb, which is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• Can be an early spring bloomer.
• Flowers are typically lavender, violet, or purple.
• Flowering period is typically winter and spring.
• Some forms exhibit a woody branched growth habit.

Ecological Role

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Can be affected by rust fungus.

Resources and Further Information

• USDA, NRCS. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
• Discover Life
• CalPhotos
• TripAdvisor