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Candytuft is easily grown in average, well-drained, alkaline soils; well-drained soil is very important for Candytuft. Shear plants by about half after they are finished flowering to promote new growth and a more compact growth habit. Stems may root when they touch the ground.

An old-time favorite, candytuft is a charming plant for perennial gardens. Because of its drought tolerance, it makes great filler for crevices in walls or between the stones of walkways. Attributes: border plant, cut flower, drought tolerant, edging and groundcover. Attracts butterflies.

Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Purity' (3.5 inch pot)

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Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake' (25) BR Plants

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Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Purity' (3.5 inch pot)

Iberis sempervirens 'Purity' (3.5-inch pot)Common Name: Purity Candytuft Height: 6-12 Inches Spread: 12-24 Inches Hardiness Zone: 3-9 Full Sun to Part Shade Evergreen Brilliant White Flower late Spring-early Summer Excellent for borders and rock gardens...

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Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake' (25) BR Plants

Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake' (25) Bare Root Plants Common name: Evergreen Candytuft. A blanket of pure white! Large clusters of flowers carpet the narrow, evergreen leaves from mid to late spring. This variety is a new vegetative selection which...

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What Is Iberis?

Iberis, commonly known as candytuft, is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Brassicaceae family. These charming little plants offer a delightful combination of:

Beautiful blooms: Iberis features delicate clusters of small, four-petaled flowers in various shades like white, purple, pink, and even lilac.

Easy care: These hardy plants are relatively low maintenance, tolerating a wide range of soil conditions and light levels.

Multiple uses: Iberis can be used in borders, rock gardens, as ground covers, or even in containers, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any space.

Here's a closer look at Iberis:

Types of Iberis:

Annuals: These varieties provide quick bursts of color and bloom throughout the summer, making them perfect for filling garden beds and containers. Examples include Iberis amara (Bitter candytuft) and Iberis umbellata (Globe candytuft).

Perennials: These long-lasting beauties come back year after year, offering reliable blooms in early spring or late summer. Popular options include Iberis sempervirens (Candytuft) and Iberis saxatilis (Rock candytuft).

Caring for Iberis:

Sunlight: Most Iberis prefer full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. However, some varieties like Iberis amara enjoy more shade.

Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial for Iberis, as they are susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions.

Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry periods, but avoid overwatering.

Fertilizing: Light fertilization in spring with a balanced fertilizer is sufficient.

Deadheading: Regularly removing spent flowers encourages further blooming.

Interesting facts about Iberis:

The name "candytuft" is not related to candy but derives from Candia, the former name of Iraklion on the island of Crete.

In the language of flowers, Iberis symbolizes indifference.

Some Iberis species have medicinal properties and have been used traditionally for various ailments.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Iberis is a versatile and rewarding plant to add to your collection. With its delicate blooms and easy-care needs, it's sure to bring a touch of springtime magic to your garden.

How Do I Plant Iberis?

Planting Iberis is a simple process, but following these steps will ensure your candytuft thrives and rewards you with beautiful blooms:

Choose the Right Type:

Annuals: If you want quick color throughout summer, opt for varieties like Iberis amara or Iberis umbellata.

Perennials: For long-lasting beauty and spring or late summer blooms, choose Iberis sempervirens or Iberis saxatilis.

Timing:

Planting: Ideally, plant Iberis when there's no danger of frost. This is usually in early spring for perennials and late spring or early summer for annuals. However, in mild climates, fall planting can also work.

Location:

Sun or Shade: Most Iberis varieties prefer full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering. Check specific variety preferences if unsure.

Soil: They need well-draining soil to avoid root rot. Amend heavy clay with compost or other organic matter before planting.

Planting Steps:

Dig holes: Make holes two to three times the width of the plant's root ball. Space them according to the recommended distance for your chosen variety (usually 6-9 inches apart).

Loosen soil: Gently loosen the soil at the bottom of each hole.

Position the plant: Place the Iberis in the hole with the crown (where the stems meet the roots) at soil level. Don't bury it too deep.

Backfill and firm: Fill the hole with soil and gently tamp it down to eliminate air pockets.

Water deeply: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and moisten the roots. You can add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Additional Tips:

Water regularly, especially during the first year and hot, dry spells. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming.

Perennials may not require fertilizer, but you can offer a light application of compost in spring.

Divide overcrowded perennial clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor.

With these simple steps and mindful care, your Iberis plants will flourish and brighten your garden with their delicate blooms for many seasons to come. Feel free to ask if you have any specific questions about planting or caring for your chosen Iberis variety!

What Are the Different Varieties of Iberis?

The delightful world of Iberis, better known as candytuft, offers a surprising variety of choices! From annual bursts of color to enduring perennial blooms, here's a glimpse into the diverse types you can bring to your garden:

Annual Beauties:

Iberis amara (Bitter candytuft): Classic white or lilac flowers borne on tall stems from spring to summer, ideal for borders and containers.

Iberis umbellata (Globe candytuft): Forms dense, ball-shaped clusters of white or pink flowers in early summer, perfect for edging and rock gardens.

Iberis linifolia (Tiny candytuft): Delicate white or purple flowers on low-growing plants, ideal for edging and crevices.

Perennial Delights:

Iberis sempervirens (Evergreen candytuft): Dense mounds of evergreen foliage topped with white, pink, or purple blooms in spring and early summer, perfect for borders and rock gardens. Popular varieties include:

'Snow Cone': Large clusters of pure white flowers.

'Purity': Prolific white flowers over compact foliage.

'Pink Ice': Blush pink flowers for a romantic touch.

Iberis saxatilis (Rock candytuft): Semi-evergreen shrub with white or purple flowers in late spring and summer, thrives in well-drained areas and rock gardens.

Beyond the Classics:

Iberis autraniana: Features fragrant lilac-purple flowers in spring and summer, adding a unique scent to your garden.

Iberis linosa (Sea candytuft): Coastal native with purple flowers and leathery leaves, tolerant of salty conditions.

Consider these factors when selecting your Iberis varieties:

Bloom time: Annuals for summer color, perennials for spring or late summer.

Flower color: White, pink, lilac, or purple depending on your preference.

Plant size: From low-growing edging plants to taller varieties for borders.

Sun exposure: Most prefer full sun or partial shade, but some tolerate more shade.

With its diverse options and easy care, Iberis offers a perfect choice for any garden. Don't hesitate to explore different varieties and create your own candytuft masterpiece!

How Do I Care for Iberis in My Garden?

Taking care of Iberis, your charming candytuft, is a piece of cake! Here's how to keep them thriving and showering you with delightful blooms:

Sun and Shade:

Most Iberis varieties prefer full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering. However, some like Iberis amara tolerate more shade. Observe your specific variety and adjust accordingly.

Watering:

Iberis enjoys moist soil but isn't a fan of drowning. Water regularly, especially during the first year and hot, dry spells. Aim for moist but not soggy soil. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Soil:

Well-draining soil is crucial for Iberis, as they are susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.

Feeding:

Annuals: Feed them with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the blooming season to encourage continuous flower power.

Perennials: Generally, don't require frequent feeding. A light application of compost in spring is sufficient.

Maintenance:

Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the season. This stimulates new blooms and keeps your candytuft looking neat.

For perennials: After flowering, prune back by about a third to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. You can also divide overcrowded clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigor.

Additional Tips:

Be mindful of extreme heat. If your area experiences scorching temperatures, provide some afternoon shade for your Iberis, especially annuals.

Protect young plants from frost in chilly regions. You can cover them with a light frost blanket or mulch heavily.

Observe your Iberis and adjust your care routine based on their needs. For example, some varieties may require more or less water depending on your climate.

With these simple tips and attentive care, your Iberis will reward you with vibrant blooms and lush foliage for many seasons to come.

Do Iberis Plants Attract Pollinators?

Iberis, your lovely candytuft, is a delightful magnet for pollinators, bringing buzzing life and vibrant energy to your garden. Here's why:

Sweet Treats:

Nectar: Iberis produces nectar-rich flowers in various shades of white, pink, and purple, offering a tasty treat for bees, butterflies, and other nectar-loving pollinators.

Pollen: Their pollen is also a valuable food source, attracting hungry bees and ensuring successful pollination for fruits and vegetables in your garden.

Open for Business:

Accessible blooms: The open, star-shaped flowers of Iberis provide easy access for pollinators to reach the nectar and pollen inside. This welcoming design makes them irresistible to a variety of insects.

Long blooming period: Some Iberis varieties, like Iberis sempervirens, offer extended blooms throughout spring and early summer, providing a reliable source of food for pollinators throughout their peak activity period.

Not Just Beauty:

Fragrance: Some Iberis varieties, like Iberis autraniana, boast a sweet, lilac-like fragrance that further attracts pollinators and adds an enchanting aroma to your garden.

Shelter and Rest: The dense foliage of Iberis, especially evergreen varieties, offers a haven for pollinators to rest and shelter from harsh weather or predators.

Choosing the Right Iberis for Pollinators:

Large, open flowers: Opt for varieties with larger, open blooms for easier access by pollinators.

Bright colors: Choose Iberis with vibrant white, pink, or purple flowers, as these are more visible to pollinators than pastel shades.

Long blooming period: Select varieties like Iberis sempervirens for a sustained source of food and attract pollinators throughout the season.

By planting a variety of Iberis and creating a pollinator-friendly garden, you can contribute to the health of your local ecosystem while enjoying the beauty of these charming plants and the lively buzz of their grateful visitors.

Remember, even less showy Iberis varieties can still attract pollinators with their foliage. The leaves provide them with shelter and a resting spot, making your garden a more welcoming environment.

So, go ahead and fill your garden with fragrant, colorful Iberis – you and the pollinators will be singing in no time!

Can I Use Iberis in Floral Arrangements?

Iberis, also known as candytuft, adds a touch of whimsical charm and delicate beauty to floral arrangements. Here's why you should consider incorporating them:

Versatility:

Foliage: Iberis comes in an array of evergreen and seasonal foliage with textures ranging from smooth and glossy to ruffled and fuzzy. The shades vary from bright green to cool blue-green, offering a stunning contrast to other flowers.

Flowers: While not the main attraction, Iberis blooms in various shades of white, pink, purple, and lilac, adding pops of color and delicate charm to your arrangements.

Long-lasting:

Iberis foliage is remarkably long-lasting, staying fresh and vibrant in arrangements for up to 5-6 weeks, sometimes even longer! This makes them a budget-friendly and low-maintenance addition.

Easy to use:

Simply cut stems at an angle with sharp shears. Iberis readily absorbs water, so no special treatment is needed.

Pairing options:

Iberis plays well with various flowers and foliage. Try pairing them with roses, lilies, hydrangeas, tulips, ferns, or ornamental grasses for a dynamic and textured look.

Tips for using Iberis in arrangements:

Choose foliage with good color and no blemishes.

Mix and match different Iberis varieties for a stunning effect.

Use Iberis as a filler or textural element, or let their vibrant colors take center stage.

Consider the scale of your arrangement and choose Iberis varieties of appropriate size.

Remember:

Some Iberis varieties have a slightly peppery scent, which can be pleasant in small doses but overwhelming in large quantities. Use them sparingly if fragrance sensitivity is a concern.

Experiment and have fun! Iberis' versatility and charming blooms allow for endless creative possibilities in your floral arrangements.

So, don't hesitate to unleash your creativity and let Iberis bring a touch of whimsical magic to your next floral masterpiece!

Is Iberis Invasive?

Whether Iberis is invasive depends on the specific species and variety, as well as your local environment. Here's a breakdown:

Generally, not invasive:

Most native North American Iberis species: These include Iberis sanguinea, Iberis americana, and Iberis villosa. They aren't considered invasive in their natural habitats.

Many cultivated varieties: Especially hybrids, are often not aggressively spreading and safe to plant in gardens. Popular examples include 'Obsidian,' 'Limelight,' and 'Marmalade.'

Potentially invasive:

A few Iberis species:

Heuchera cylindrica: Can be invasive in certain areas, primarily outside its native range, like the Pacific Northwest.

Heuchera richardsonii: Has shown invasive tendencies in specific regions, mainly in disturbed habitats.

Hybrids involving these species: Might inherit invasive characteristics.

Factors to consider:

Climate: Iberis thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade. In cool, temperate climates, they're less likely to spread aggressively. However, in warm, humid climates with ample moisture, invasive potential increases.

Garden conditions: Densely planted gardens with moist soil and limited sunlight provide ideal conditions for Iberis to spread. Monitor your plants and control their growth if necessary.

Variety information: Consult reputable sources like native plant nurseries or botanical gardens to determine the invasive potential of your specific Iberis variety in your region.

Tips for responsible planting:

Research thoroughly: Consult reliable sources to understand the potential invasiveness of your chosen Iberis in your area.

Choose wisely: Opt for non-invasive species and varieties suitable for your local climate and garden conditions.

Monitor and manage: Keep an eye on your Iberis and promptly remove unwanted runners or sprouts to prevent unwanted spread.

Consider alternatives: In areas with concerns about Iberis invasiveness, explore alternative shade-loving perennials with similar foliage colors and textures.

By choosing the right species and varieties and practicing responsible garden management, you can enjoy the beauty of Iberis without harming your local ecosystem.

When Is The Best Time To Divide Iberis?

The best time to divide Iberis depends on several factors, including your climate, the purpose of division, and the specific variety you're growing. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Ideal Timing:

Generally: The most favorable time to divide Iberis is in early spring (March-April) or fall (September-October). During these seasons, temperatures are mild, and the plants are actively growing but haven't expended energy on blooming or surviving harsh weather. This gives them ample time to establish and recover before winter or summer heat arrives.

Climate Variations:

Colder climates: If you live in a region with harsh winters, it's best to divide Iberis in early spring. This allows the divisions to establish strong roots before winter dormancy sets in.

Warmer climates: In milder climates with minimal frost, fall division works well. This provides them with ample moisture and cooler temperatures as they settle in before the next growing season.

Purpose of Division:

Rejuvenation: If you're dividing Iberis to revitalize overcrowded clumps, either spring or fall is suitable. However, spring might be slightly preferable, as new growth emerges quickly, masking any division wounds.

Propagation: If you're dividing Iberis primarily for propagation purposes, you can consider late summer (July-August) in milder climates. This gives the divisions enough time to root and establish before winter.

Variety Considerations:

Some Iberis varieties, like 'Caramel' and 'Obsidian,' can be divided even in summer as long as you provide adequate water and shade during the hottest periods. However, consult your specific variety's information for best practices.

Remember:

Avoid dividing Iberis during periods of extreme heat or drought.

Water them thoroughly after dividing and keep them in indirect sunlight or shade until they recover.

Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By considering these factors and choosing the appropriate timing for your specific situation, you can ensure successful division and continued enjoyment of your beautiful Iberis plants.

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Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Purity' (3.5 inch pot)

Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake' (25) BR Plants

Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Purity' (3.5 inch pot)

Iberis

Iberis sempervirens 'Snowflake' (25) BR Plants