Plant care & info

Family: Brassicaceae

Genus: Iberis

Species: Sempervirens

Evergreen Candytuft

The plant is named after Iberia, a region in Spain where many members of the genus originate.

Iberis sempervirens is best grown in full sun and well-draining soil in full sun, although it will tolerate light shade. Mulch in winter to protect from cold. Water regularly in the summer.

Overall, the plant is pretty low-maintenance, but it will benefit from cutting or shearing back after blooming by up to 1/3 of its original size. This will encourage new growth and will help maintain a tidy, compact shape. Mulching around the plant will help control weeds until it has grown to cover the desired area.

Attracts bees and beneficial insects. Evergreen, drought tolerant, deer resistant. Attracts hummingbirds.

Crown Rot and Club Root are the primary disease problems of Iberis sempervirens. Soils with poor drainage are the common cause of these problems. There are no serious pest problems commonly associated with the plant.

Profuse white flower clusters blanket the narrow, evergreen leaves throughout spring, highlighting other colors in the spring garden! Their fragrance will attract a wide variety of butterflies and bees.

This attractive plant is fast-growing, and is very easy to care for. The low-growing habit of Iberis sempervirens makes it an excellent edging plant for borders, paths or sidewalks. It looks especially stunning in rock gardens or cascading over ledges. It is also a beautiful evergreen addition in containers and window boxes.

Candytuft combines beautifully with other cascading perennials such as Lithodora, Aubrieta and Helianthemum.