Evergreen candytuft, planting guide and care work

evergreen-candytuft-information-advice-care

Evergreen candytuft (Iberis sempervirens) is a perennial herbaceous plant, also known as perennial candytuft, originating from southern Europe. The plants have a bushy appearance and are often found in gardens, for ground cover, next to curbs or in rockeries, but they can also grow in flowerpots or containers.

It has small and elongated, dark green leaves. The flowers are also small, numerous, white or pink, depending on the variety/cultivar. Although the flowers are very decorative, they can have an unpleasant smell. The Evergreen candytuft blooms from late spring to early summer.

Evergreen candytuft – varieties and cultivars
  • ‘Purity’: it reaches a height of approximately 25 cm. The flowers are white and grow in bouquets;
  • ‘Nana’: it is a shorter cultivar and it grows to a height of 15 cm. It has white flowers;
  • ‘Pink Ice’: the flowers are slightly pink-tinged;
  • ‘Alexander’s White’: it has a low growth and blooms early;
  • ‘Snowflake’: with large bouquets of white flowers and wider leaves.

Environmental conditions

Light. It is an important factor in the flowering process. Therefore, it is recommended to place it in bright places. The Evergreen candytuft can also tolerate partial shade.

Temperature. During the cold season, the plants can be covered with mulch to protect them from frost.

Soil. Being originally from the Mediterranean area, Evergreen candytuft prefers sandy or gravelly soils. However, it can also grow on other types of soil, if a good water drainage is ensured. The soil can have a neutral – slightly alkaline pH.

Evergreen candytuft – Care

Watering. Young plants are watered moderately, especially during dry periods. Mature plants are resistant to drought for a short period of time. They can be watered depending on the temperature and precipitation. Excessive soil moisture and lack of drainage lead to root rot and to the death of the plant.

Fertilizing. For an abundant flowering, special fertilizers for flowering plants can be applied in spring.

Recommended products

Read carefully and follow the instructions on the label of each product

Propagation. It is propagated by dividing the bush, by seeds or cuttings. The most common method of propagation is by dividing the bush. This operation can be done in the fall, before the plants start their dormancy period.

Dormancy. After the plant enters the dormancy period and loses its leaves, it can be cut close to the ground. In areas with harsh winters, it is recommended to cover the plants with mulch, to protect them from the cold wind and frost.

Diseases and pests

The most common disease is root rot, favored by high humidity in the soil and lack of proper water drainage. Affected plants are removed. They can also be affected by gray mold, powdery mildew, leaf spots and rust. Among the pests, snails or slugs can infest the plants, as well as caterpillars.

Recommended products

Read carefully and follow the instructions on the label of each product

Recommended products

Read carefully and follow the instructions on the label of each product
Additionally:
  • Removing wilted, dry flowers can extend the flowering period;
  • The yellowing of the leaves is often caused by environmental conditions: warm weather, high humidity;
  • In regions with a warm climate, it behaves like an evergreen plant.
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