Snow-in-summer (Cerastium lucorum)
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
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Snow-in-summer
Cerastium lucorum, also known as Hain-Hornkraut, is a small perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is characterized by its delicate white flowers with five slightly notched petals and grayish-green foliage. It makes an excellent ground cover in rock gardens, along paths, or as a filler plant in flower beds, adding a wild and bright touch.
Native range
Central and Eastern Europe
Care tips
It prefers full sun to light partial shade for optimal flowering. It requires well-drained, sandy or slightly stony soil, and tolerates poor soils. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, as it is susceptible to waterlogging. Avoid excessive moisture in winter, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Snow-in-summer
- Warning signs
- Wilted or yellowing leaves, soft and blackened stems. Soft or foul-smelling roots.
- First aid
- Remove affected parts. Check drainage. If soil is waterlogged, move to a drier spot.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in heavy soils. It doesn't tolerate waterlogging or dense shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient, but prolonged waterlogging is fatal.