Iberis sempervirens Snowflake

Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake' is a small evergreen ground cover perennial plant, particularly robust and resistant, persistent in winter, which literally covers itself with white flowers from early spring. It forms attractive cushions all year round and allows easy greening of places where the soil is thin: rockeries, borders, low walls, and joints between paving stones. Very drought-resistant once well established, this variety also withstands cold winters.  It prefers the sun but tolerates partial shade well in very sunny regions.

Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake', also known as Candytuft, Stool, or Silver Basket, is an undershrub of the Brassicaceae family. The botanical species is native to the Mediterranean region. This plant therefore tolerates heat and drought well once established. 'Snowflake' is a particularly floriferous horticultural selection. This cultivar produces larger and denser inflorescences, with clusters of bright white flowers that almost completely cover the plant in spring. Its leaves are also broader and tougher than those of the wild species, giving it a more robust appearance. The 'Snowflake' cultivar is also known for its more regular growth and compact habit. Its foliage consists of many small, dark green, glossy, evergreen leaves. They are carried by woody stems that form a dense cushion 25 cm high and spreading at least 40 cm. The vegetation is covered between March and May with pure white flower heads with four petals measuring 2 to 5 cm in diameter. Depending on the soil moisture, flowering can sporadically continue until autumn. It is very easy to propagate by taking stem cuttings in spring or late summer. Iberis is also very honey-producing.

The evergreen Candytuft 'Snowflake' can be planted in all regions, provided the soil is well-drained. Heavy soil quickly causes the plant to deteriorate. On the other hand, it does not mind stony or rocky soil. You can use it to highlight pathways when planted en masse. In a rockery, you can associate it with golden baskets, small Teucrium, rock cresses, Erodium, thymes... or even perennial sages. Growing in pots is entirely possible, with regular watering, in a light and well-drained substrate.