Candytuft typically starts flowering in April.
candytuft
Iberis SNOWBALL
Candytuft (Iberis Snowball) is a popular flowering evergreen plant species recognizable by its beautiful white flower heads that look like snowballs. It is a hardy species, growing best in full sun to partial shade and needs well drained soil to reach its full potential. It blooms in the months of April and May, producing a dense and showy carpet of blooms. Because of its drought tolerance, Snowball Candytuft is great for low maintenance spaces, needing minimal care. This low growing plant also makes a great choice for rock gardens or edging flower beds as it won't overtake or out grow other plants.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flowers:
White Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Candytuft (Iberis SNOWBALL) requires moderate levels of water when planted outdoors. It should be watered regularly throughout the growing season, about once or twice a week. In hot, dry conditions, additional water may be necessary. Water until the soil is saturated, then wait until the top of the soil begins to dry before watering again. During the cold winter months, it’s best to water less frequently. Water only when the soil is completely dry.
sunlight
Candytuft (Iberis SNOWBALL) prefers to be planted in sunny locations with moist, well-drained soil. The plants should receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In the late spring and summer months, it may be beneficial to place the plants in a partially shaded area during the hottest part of the day. During the winter months, when the plants are dormant and need little sunlight, they should still be placed in a well-lit area, preferably in midday sun.
pruning
Candytuft (Iberis Snowball) should be pruned twice a year, once in late summer and once in late winter. In late summer, remove any dead flower heads, as well as spent foliage and dead wood, to maintain its shape. In late winter, pruning should be restricted to removing dead wood and any overly tall foliage. You can prune lightly during this period, as the plant is likely to be in its dormant stage. Be sure to avoid pruning any new growth that may have developed in early winter, as it is important for the plant to develop a healthy and strong shape. Pruning should be done carefully, as Candytuft is a slow grower and any careless pruning can reduce growth significantly.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Hardiness Map
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.
