Evergreen Candytuft

(Iberis sempervirens)

Evergreen Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Iberis sempervirens, commonly known as Evergreen Candytuft, is an evergreen perennial subshrub or herb native to the Mediterranean region, specifically Southern Europe and North Africa. It typically grows to 30 cm (12 in) in height and 40 cm (16 in) in width. This plant thrives in rocky, limestone soils and Mediterranean scrubland, where it is adapted to a climate with dry summers and mild, wet winters. Its natural habitat includes open woodlands and rocky slopes, often in calcareous soil.

Evergreen Candytuft is valued for its glossy, evergreen foliage that forms a dense, billowing mound, and its profusion of fragrant, pure white flowers that appear in tight clusters. The flowering season extends from spring into early summer, providing a long-lasting display of blooms that are particularly showy. It is a popular choice for rock gardens, cascading over walls, and as a ground cover in sunny borders. The plant’s drought tolerance once established makes it a low-maintenance option for water-wise gardens. It is also used for edging and in containers. Cultivation requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot, particularly avoiding heavy clay soils that remain wet in winter. It is not suitable for division. In terms of climate adaptability, Iberis sempervirens is hardy in USDA zones 3–9 and can withstand temperatures down to −15 °C (5 °F). It requires a period of cold weather for flower initiation, with at least 8–10 weeks at an average temperature of 5 °C (40 °F). Full sun is ideal for this plant, along with moderate watering and well-drained soil.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Rocky, limestone soils and Mediterranean scrubland, open woodlands, and rocky slopes often in calcareous soil

Other Names

Common Names: Perennial Candytuft, Edging Candytuft, Immergrüne Schleifenblume, Immerblütige Schleifenblume, Corbeille D’Argent, Thlaspi Toujours Vert, Vinteriberis, Vinterflip

Scientific Names: , Iberis sempervirens, Iberis garrexiana, Iberis sempervirens subsp. sempervirens, Iberis serrulata, Iberis commutata, Iberis sempervirens subsp. garrexiana, Aethionema longistylum, Biauricula sempervirens, Biauricularia sempervirens

GBIF Accepted Name: Iberis sempervirens L.