Snow in Summer

Snow-in-summer is a low, spreading perennial that forms a silvery-green foliage mat and bears white, star-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer. It fits sunny edges, rock gardens, and dry, well-drained groundcover areas where its runners have room to spread. ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cerastium-tomentosum/common-name/snow-plant/)) ## Growth and Placement Plants typically make a 6–12 inch foliage mat, with flowering stems rising above it. Allow about 9–18 inches for its spreading habit, and use it where a low carpet will not crowd smaller neighbors. It flowers from late spring into summer and can be short-lived, especially where dense growth develops dead patches. ## Soil and Water Choose a sunny location with good drainage. Snow-in-summer tolerates dry, sandy and relatively poor soil, while persistently wet soil can lead to root rot. It performs best in cooler summer climates and may thin or decline in hot, humid conditions. ([NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cerastium-tomentosum/common-name/snow-plant/)) ## Maintenance Remove spent flower stems after bloom to limit self-seeding and keep the mat neat. Divide every few years in spring or fall, and replace thin patches as needed.