Iberis sempervirens (Candytuft)

This is one of those tried and true perennials that continues to deliver outstanding landscape performance year in and year out. Iberis sempervirens, AKA “Candytuft” is a rather compact shrub that grows 6-12” tall x 12-24” wide. It has narrow, dark green foliage that is topped with clusters of brilliant white flowers. It comes into bloom in mid-winter and stays blooming through late spring. In cooler coastal regions it will continue to put on a show well into mid-summer.

We are currently growing two varieties: ‘Snow Cone’ and ‘Snowsurfer Forte’, both being two of the newest varieties on the market. When mass planted they create sheets of pure white, and placed along a garden path the bright white flowers are the perfect addition to a moon garden where white flowers are all the rage.

The sweetly scented flower clusters attract Butterflies to the garden but thankfully the local Deer population seem to leave them alone. When the flowers have faded, simply prune them back to encourage re-bloom. It’s best to plant Iberis sempervirens in full to partial sun, in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The Sunset Western Climate Zones are 1-24, making it an all-around winner for most areas! We are currently growing Iberis sempervirens ‘Snow Cone’ and ‘Snowsurfer Forte’ in one gallon containers. Give us a call, visit our website www.clearwatercolor.com or stop by the nursery to see these beautiful perennials for yourself.