Snow-in-Summer
Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)
Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum) is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial admired for its silvery-gray foliage and abundant white flowers. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in rock gardens, borders, and ground cover plantings, providing a carpet of blooms in late spring to early summer.
Distinctive Features
Snow-in-Summer forms dense, trailing clumps of soft, woolly, silvery-green leaves. In late spring, masses of small, star-like white flowers blanket the foliage, creating a stunning contrast that resembles freshly fallen snow. This plant is an excellent choice for erosion control and weed suppression.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun for best flowering.
- Soil: Thrives in well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil; tolerates poor soils.
- Water: Low moisture needs; drought-tolerant once established.
- Humidity: Prefers dry to moderate humidity.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
Ideal Uses
- Rock Gardens: Thrives in dry, well-drained conditions.
- Ground Cover: Spreads quickly, suppressing weeds.
- Border Edging: Provides a soft, cascading effect along pathways.
- Containers: Works well in pots and hanging baskets.
- Erosion Control: Ideal for slopes and dry banks.
Low Maintenance Care
Snow-in-Summer is an easy-to-grow perennial that requires minimal upkeep.
- Watering: Prefers dry to moderately moist soil; avoid overwatering.
- Pruning: Trim back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage reblooming.
- Fertilizing: Requires little feeding; thrives in lean, well-drained soils.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to deer and most common garden pests.
- Winter Care: Hardy in most climates; trim back in late fall to tidy up foliage.
Why Choose Snow-in-Summer?
Snow-in-Summer is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance ground cover with striking silver foliage and profuse blooms.
- Abundant White Flowers: Creates a striking carpet of blooms.
- Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry, well-drained soils.
- Attracts Pollinators: Supports bees and butterflies.
- Versatile Uses: Ideal for rock gardens, edging, and erosion control.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little care once established.
For a resilient, visually stunning addition to the garden, Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum) is an outstanding choice.
Order Fulfillment
- We're now offering nationwide delivery for plant material in small containers. If your selection isn't yet eligible for shipping, or you need delivery for larger containers and/or B&B material, please email shop@plantdetectives.com.
- All online orders can be picked up at our garden center, located at 45 Route 206 in Chester, New Jersey. Please remember to bring your order number and a valid photo ID with you.
- All gift card purchases are delivered via US Postal Service and can be shipped nationwide.