Snow-in-summer is a perennial flowering ground cover that blooms profusely in the early summer, producing a blanket of notched pristine white flowers that suggest a fresh snowfall. Snow-in-summer grows best in full-sun areas with poor, slightly acidic, and well-draining soil. This drought-tolerant plant thrives and spreads quickly in cool, dry climates with moderate temperatures and will not grow well in humid regions.
The snow in the summer plant, also known as Cerastium tomentosum, is a low-growing perennial that produces a stunning carpet of white blooms in late spring and early summer when most other plants are just starting to wake up With its woolly, silvery-grey foliage and abundant flowers, it truly resembles freshly fallen snow during the warmer months
Overview of Snow in the Summer
Snow in the summer is a mat-forming evergreen perennial that belongs to the carnation family. It is native to Europe and commonly grows in rock gardens and on rocky slopes. The plant reaches a height of 4 to 8 inches and spreads 12 to 18 inches wide. Its grayish-green leaves are oval-shaped and densely covered in woolly hairs on both sides, giving them a soft, silvery appearance.
The showy flowers of snow in the summer cover the plant in a blanket of white starting in late spring. The blooms are small, about 1⁄4 inch wide, and have five deeply lobed petals. They continue appearing sporadically through the summer. Once established, this hardy perennial can produce masses of flowers year after year with very little care required.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Snow in the summer thrives in full sun and poor, dry soils. It is considered drought tolerant once established and does not require much watering or rich soil to flower profusely. It can adapt to a wide range of conditions but prefers sharp drainage The optimal pH range is 60 to 8.0.
This plant is winter hardy in USDA zones 3 through 10. It can withstand cold winter temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow in the summer grows best in areas with cool summers and cold winters. Hot and humid summer climates may cause the foliage to look unattractive during those months.
Uses in the Landscape
The low, spreading habit of snow in the summer makes it well suited as a ground cover. It can blanket areas between stepping stones or pavers to form a living carpet. The sea of white flowers contrasts beautifully against the foliage and surrounding elements.
Some popular ways to use snow in the summer in gardens and landscapes include:
- Planted in rock gardens, alpine gardens, or on slopes
- Used as a lawn substitute or low-maintenance ground cover
- Allowed to creep between stepping stones or pavers
- Grown in border edges, cottage gardens, or containers
- Planted along pathways, walkways, and driveways
Care and Maintenance
Snow in the summer requires very little care once established. It thrives on neglect and hardly needs any watering, fertilizing, or pruning. Here are some simple tips for getting the most out of this plant:
- Plant in full sun for the heaviest flowering
- Water occasionally in extreme heat or drought
- Cut back spent flower stems to encourage reblooming
- Divide congested plants every 2-3 years in early spring
- Prune lightly after flowering to tidy appearance
- Avoid fertilizing which can cause lush, floppy growth
Propagation and Pests/Problems
Snow in the summer is easily propagated by seed or division in spring. Seeds can be directly sown outdoors in prepared soil. The plant has no serious pest or disease issues. Potential problems to watch for include:
- Powdery mildew if planted in too much shade or moisture
- Leaf spots or botrytis blight in excess humidity
- Damage from slugs and snails
Where to Buy Snow in the Summer
Snow in the summer is carried by many online plant retailers and nurseries that offer perennials. High Country Gardens sells a jumbo-sized variety called ‘Giant Snow-in-Summer’ that has extra large leaves and a vigorous, spreading habit. It was discovered growing in Santa Fe, New Mexico and is recommended for hot, dry climates and poor soils.
With its stellar performance, low-maintenance habits, and blankets of summer blooms, snow in the summer is a stellar addition to any garden. Order plants online or check for availability at your local garden center. Then sit back and enjoy the snow during the hottest months of the year!
Light
This plant prefers full sun conditions. Snow-in-summer can develop fungal problems if planted in the shade.
Temperature and Humidity
Snow-in-summer likes relatively cool, dry summers. It will be very short-lived if planted in hot, humid climates. However, snow-in-summer is salt-tolerant and does well in cooler coastal regions.
Flower Gardens : How to Grow Snow-In-Summer (Cerastium Tomentosum)
FAQ
Is Snow-in-Summer a perennial?
Yes, Snow-in-Summer is a perennial plant.
Is Snow-in-Summer plant invasive?
It is not classified as invasive but can grow weedy1 in areas with cooler summer climates where the plant is more robust.
Where is the best place to plant snow in the summer?
Grow snow in summer in full sun ideally, it prefers dry conditions and is an excellent drought-tolerant plant. A well-draining soil is crucial, damp or poorly draining soil may result in fungal problems or root rot.
Does Snow-in-Summer spread quickly?
Evergreen, it spreads quickly by reseeding itself and makes a great ground cover for sunny areas. Winter hardy, this low-growing perennial grows only 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and spreads 6-18 in. (15-45 cm).