Cerastium tomentosum aka Snow In Summer
Taxonomy
Cerastium tomentosum, also known as snow-in-summer, is a creeping, evergreen, herbaceous perennial that grows up to 45 centimeters high. Native to alpine regions of Europe, it is characterized by its dense, tomentose or felty foliage that gives it a silvery-grey appearance. The leaves are linear to lanceolate and covered in silky, entangled hairs that form a whitish felting. The plant produces showy white, star-shaped flowers that are about 15mm across and appear in inflorescences of up to 15 flowers. The flowering period is from May to July, but it may also bloom at other times of the year. Snow-in-summer is a low-growing plant that forms a 6" tall mat of narrow leaves, and stems with flowers that protrude 8-12" above the ground cover. It is a member of the family Caryophyllaceae and is generally distinguished from other species of its genus by its tomentose foliage. Self-seeding may occur if spent blooms are not removed.
Common names
Snow In Summer, Dusty Miller, Snow In HarvestHow to care for Snow In Summer
Difficulty
Snow In Summer presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Snow In Summer should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Snow In Summer loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Snow In Summer thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Snow In Harvest.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Snow In Summer to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Snow In Summer is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Cerastium Genus
Cerastium semidecandrum Five Stamen Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium beeringianum Bering Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium arvense Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium velutinum Large Field Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium Chickweed
Cerastium biebersteinii Snow In Summer
Cerastium fontanum Common Chickweed
Cerastium alpinum Alpine Mouse Ear
