Also known as Snow-in-Summer · 166 saves
Cerastium
Cerastium, the genus most gardeners know as snow-in-summer. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Cerastium varieties
2 species of Cerastium
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Cerastium in Sow
Save the Cerastium you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Cerastium
Whats common across all Cerastium varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Cerastium year
- PruneMay and June100% of varieties
Shear back by 1/3 after flowering to tidy foliage and maintain density
- DivideMarch and September100% of varieties
Divide overcrowded clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall
Do
- Water sparingly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Ensure full sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
- Water regularly during dry periods to keep soil moist
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize excessively, as it prefers poor soil
- Refrain from heavy pruning during winter
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Cerastium
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Distorted or sticky leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning at base | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Cerastium
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring or fall.
- Separate clumps with a sharp knife or spade.
- Replant divisions immediately at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Allow 6 weeks for establishment.
Seed
- Sow seeds on surface of moist soil in early spring.
- Lightly press seeds into soil and keep moist for germination, which takes 2-3 weeks.
Cerastium questions
How many types of Cerastium are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Cerastium varieties. The most popular — ranked by 166 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Cerastium grow in?
Across its varieties, Cerastium covers USDA Zones 4–8. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Cerastium bloom?
Most Cerastium varieties bloom in late spring to early summer, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Cerastium should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.