CANDYTUFT Iberis sempervirens

Iberis sempervirens is an the evergreen perennial, native to southern Europe. It is a spreading subshrub growing to 30 cm (12 in) high by 40 cm (16 in) broad. As an ornamental plant it is a spring-blooming favorite, often seen cascading over rocks and walls, or used as groundcover. The glossy, evergreen foliage forms a billowing mound, with many pure white flowers for several weeks during spring and early summer. When grown in a garden it may require light pruning right after blooming, but otherwise plants can be left alone in fall and early spring. It is drought-tolerant once established. It prefers a well-drained site, so heavy clay soils that stay wet in winter should be avoided. Iberis sempervirens survives in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.

Iberis is so Named because many members of the genus come from the Iberian Peninsula. Sempervirens means "always green", referring to the evergreen foliage.

This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Type: Hardy perennial

Height: 10-12"

Location: Sun

Hardiness zones: 3-9

Bloom time: Summer

Seeds per pack:10

Germination: Place seeds on the surface of the soil, and keep warm and moist until established. Place in a bright location, as light aids germination. These seeds are easy to grow, and no special treatment is required. Growth will appear within 3-4 weeks.