Candytuft ‘Pink Ice’

Iberis sempervirens  ‘Pink Ice’

Note: Plant Patent Applied For ~ Propagation Restrictions May Apply

Characteristics

Culture

Candytuft ‘Pink Ice’ is typically grown in medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade. Less floriferous if grown in part shade. Well-drained soil is the key to growing this plant well. Tolerant of drought. Cut or sheer plants stems back by 1/3 after flowering to encourage new growth and to maintain compact habit. In cold winter climates, mulch plants with a modest covering of evergreen boughs in winter to help minimize potential damage from sun scorch and desiccation. Candytuft ‘Pink Ice’ foliage often benefits in winter from snow cover. Stems may root where they touch the ground creating new plants which can be left as is or transplanted to other areas.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Iberis sempervirens, commonly called Candytuft, is a low-growing, spreading, woody-based, herbaceous perennial or sub-shrub which typically forms a foliage mound rising to 6-12” tall and spreading to 18” wide or more. It is native to southern Europe. It is evergreen in warm winter climates, but semi-evergreen in cold winter climates where the foliage may become straggly or otherwise suffer significant decline in harsh winters.

 

‘Pink Ice’, often treated as a perennial, is actually a low growing shrub; features a froth of showy pink flowers in spring that mature to a dazzling lilac; tidy evergreen foliage for the rest of the year.

Problems

Wet, poorly-drained soils inevitably lead to crown rot which can devastate plantings. Susceptible to club root which results in stunted growth. Desiccation and sun scorch may damage the evergreen foliage in cold winter climates. Additional potential problems include downy mildew, powdery mildew, gray mold, rust and fungal leaf spots. Watch for slugs, snails and caterpillars. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid this plant.

Garden Uses

Excellent edging for borders, paths or walkways. Rock gardens. Sprawl over a wall. Interesting ground cover for small, sunny areas. Containers.