candytuft
Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flowers:
White Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens ‘Snowflake’) is an upright shrub that thrives in full sun to part shade and requires moist, well-drained soil. It should be watered deeply once or twice a week in spring, summer and fall. It is best to avoid a daily schedule and allow the soil to slightly dry out between watering to encourage strong root growth. During winter months when the plant is dormant, reduce watering to once a month. Keep in mind, if temperatures are higher than average, plants may require more frequent watering.
sunlight
Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake') plants require 6 to 7 hours of sunlight each day to thrive. In areas with longer daylight periods, plants can get by with a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best location for candytuft is 1 with full to partial sun exposure, such as a south- or west-facing window in a home or a place to plant them outdoors that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If the plant doesn’t get enough sunlight, the stems and foliage may become leggy, pale, and develop brown splotches. If direct sunlight is too strong and lasts too long, the leaves could turn yellow or scorch, or the flowers may not bloom.
pruning
Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake') can be pruned in late winter or early spring. Prune lightly, removing any dead, weak, or damaged branches. This will encourage new growth and a bushy compact shape. Depending on what look you are hoping for, candytuft may need an additional pruning in mid-summer to keep it looking neat and tidy. Rejuvenation pruning can also be done in late winter of every 3 to 4 years to promote a new burst of fresh growth.
FAQ
Is candytuft a perennial flower?
Yes, candytuft is a perennial flower. It is a flowering evergreen plant that typically blooms from late spring to early summer. The flowers are commonly white, pink, or lavender, and the foliage is attractive with bright green, finely divided leaves. The plant is native to the Mediterranean and thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil. It is usually a short-lived perennial that can reach a height of two to three feet and is suitable for areas with dry summers.
Are there different varieties of candytuft?
Yes, there are different varieties of candytuft. Most varieties are small evergreen shrubs with clusters of small, white, four-petal flowers that blossom in the spring. These are generally evergreen cover plants and border plants for flower beds that come in various colors, including pink and purple. Flower heads come in varieties that can vary in diameter from an inch to two inches. Additionally, there are some double and semi-double varieties as well.
Should candytuft be grown in containers?
Yes, candytuft (Iberis sempervirens) can be grown in containers. This evergreen perennial can be grown as an annual in cooler climates and in containers it typically reaches heights of 6” - 12”. Candytuft grows best in well-drained soil, preferably in an area that gets full sun or partial shade. When growing candytuft in containers, make sure the pot has drainage holes in the bottom. When selecting a pot, choose one that is larger than the current root ball of your candytuft and leave enough space between the roots and the edge of the pot for the roots to spread. Additionally, it is important to remember to use a potting medium made specifically for container planting that drains well and retains moisture.
Could candytuft be used in rock gardens?
Yes, candytuft can be used in rock gardens. It is a hardy, drought tolerant flowering plant that can handle full sun and is also beneficial to bees and other beneficial insects. Its small, white flowers create a nice contrast with other plants and rock colors, and require very little maintenance. With its easy maintenance and ability to survive in a variety of climates and soil types, candytuft is a great addition to any rock garden.
Do candytuft flowers attract bees and butterflies?
Yes, candytuft flowers attract bees and butterflies. Bees and butterflies are attracted to the nectar and sweet aroma of candytuft flowers. The vivid colors of the petals on candytuft flowers also attract pollinators. Because candytuft flowers are typically smaller than other flowering plants, they are often overlooked by pollinators. However, when these flowers come into bloom, they are visited by bees and butterflies from miles around.
Should candytuft be grown from seeds or transplants?
Candytuft can be grown either from seeds or transplants. Growing from seed is relatively easy and usually recommended if you have the time. Growing from seed gives you more control over the health and quality of your plants as you can buy fresh, untreated seeds which can be sown in a timely manner and you can select from a range of varieties and planting locations. Transplanting is often a viable option for gardeners who prefer to buy pre-grown plants, or want a quicker harvesting time. Transplants are usually more expensive than seeds, so it is important to research what time of year is best for transplanting in your particular area in order to get the best success.
Could candytuft be used as a ground cover?
Yes, candytuft can be used as a ground cover. It's a low-growing flowering plant that can be used as a perennial in most regions, and its low spreading habit makes it an effective ground cover. It also has the advantage of being drought tolerant, so once established, it won't require much water. It provides pretty white or pink blooms in the spring and early summer. All in all, it's an ideal choice for an attractive and easy-care ground cover.
Do candytuft flowers come in different colors?
Yes, candytuft flowers do come in different colors. Generally, candytuft blooms in white or shades of pink and purple. However, you can also find brightly colored varieties such as yellow, orange, and red. Some varieties even have a bicolor flower with two colors either on the same flower or with different petal colors. They all look very attractive and are perfect for adding color to your garden.
