Snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Snow-in-summer on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Caryophyllaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Snow-in-summer
Cerastium tomentosum, commonly known as Snow-in-Summer, is a low-growing perennial plant, ideal for ground cover. It is characterized by its silvery, hairy foliage that forms a dense mat, and by its small white flowers that appear in spring and early summer. It is perfect for rock gardens, path edges, or as ground cover in dry, sunny gardens, providing an attractive textural and color contrast.
Native range
Europe, from Spain to the Caucasus
Care tips
It requires full sun to thrive and well-drained soil, preferably sandy or gravelly, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry completely between waterings, and very scarce once established. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot and reduced flowering. After flowering, a light prune helps maintain its compact shape and encourages new growth.
How to save a dying Snow-in-summer
- Warning signs
- Leaves lose silvery tone, turn yellowish/brown; general wilting; no blooms or dried flowers.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If waterlogged, repot with better-draining soil. If very dry, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and heavy soils that retain too much moisture, leading to root rot. Also excessive shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted. Act quickly by adjusting watering and improving drainage.