Iberis umbellata aka Garden Candytuft
Taxonomy
Iberis umbellata, also known as garden candytuft or globe candytuft, is a herbaceous annual flowering plant from the Brassicaceae family. These bushy, mound-forming plants grow up to 30cm high, with linear leaves. During spring and summer, they produce small, scented flowers in clusters that come in various shades of pink, purple, and white. Candytuft, a beloved plant in cottage gardens, thrives in well-drained soil and can adapt to different soil types. It is ideal for small spaces, such as walkways or sunny slopes, and can even self-seed in certain areas.
Common names
Garden Candytuft, Annual Candytuft, Globe CandytuftHow to care for Garden Candytuft
Water
Garden Candytuft should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Garden Candytuft 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
Garden Candytuft 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 Globe Candytuft.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Garden Candytuft should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Garden Candytuft’s native range is S. Europe.
More info:
Wikipedia
