Snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum)
sir-ASS-tee-um toe-men-TOE-sum
Genus:
Cerastium
Snow-in-summer is great for rock gardens and dry areas, and also works well as a container plant. Plant it on a stone wall for a cascading effect. Snow-in-summer needs room to perform. A single plant can carpet an area as wide as a yard across. After the flowers fade, the silver/grey foliage shines on in contrast to more predictable shades of green.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
These plants can be short-lived.
Care:
Plant in a sunny spot in well-drained soil.
Propagation:
Sow seeds in spring indoors or after last frost, divide plants in spring or autumn, or sow seeds in autumn after last frost.
Problems:
No serious problems other than root rot.
Overview
Height
Less than 6 in.
Spread
6 in. to 12 in.
Growth Habit
Spreads
Growth Pace
Invasive/Aggressive Grower,
Moderate Grower
Light
Full Sun Only
Moisture
Dry
Maintenance
Moderate
Characteristics
Showy Flowers
Bloom Time
Early Summer,
Late Spring,
Spring,
Summer
Flower Color
White
Foliage Color
Silver/Grey
Uses
Container,
Ground Covers,
Beds and Borders
Style
Rock Garden
Seasonal Interest
Spring Interest
Tolerance
Drought Tolerant
Type
Perennials