perennial

Greek Snow-in-Summer

Cerastium candidissimum

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing perennial commonly known as snow-in-summer, with dense mats of silvery-grey foliage and abundant white flowers.

Flowers are in abundance during late spring, creating a striking mat-like appearance.

Uses & Benefits:

Cerastium candidissimum offers a lush, silvery foliage that brightens rock gardens and borders, providing a soft, textured groundcover.

Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for erosion control and filling difficult spots in the garden.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

4 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Greece

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for root development.
Transplant seedlings when they are strong and have established roots, typically after 6 weeks.
Space plants 12 inches apart to allow for growth.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Water consistently, especially during dry spells to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy or loamy soil for optimal growth and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Ensure full sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
Water regularly during dry periods to keep soil moist
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
Don't plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Refrain from pruning in late fall to protect winter interest

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery groundcover with delicate foliageBorder plant in rock gardensErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

SedumThyme Lavender Artemisia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Greek Snow-in-Summer questions

What zones can Greek Snow-in-Summer grow in?

Greek Snow-in-Summer is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Greek Snow-in-Summer deer resistant?

Yes — Greek Snow-in-Summer is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Greek Snow-in-Summer bloom?

Greek Snow-in-Summer typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Greek Snow-in-Summer need full sun?

Greek Snow-in-Summer does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Greek Snow-in-Summer drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Greek Snow-in-Summer handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.