Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)

Candytuft (*Iberis sempervirens*) is a low, spreading evergreen subshrub or perennial with narrow dark-green foliage and dense white flower clusters. It suits sunny borders, edging, rock gardens, and ground cover, and can cascade over a raised bed or container. ## Form and Flowering [Kew Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:324670-2) lists *Iberis sempervirens* as an accepted species in Brassicaceae. [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/iberis-sempervirens/common-name/perennial-candytuft/) describes plants 6–12 inches tall and 6–18 inches wide, with small white flowers from spring into summer. The [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9066/iberis-sempervirens/details) gives a broader 0.1–0.5 meter height and spread range. Foliage stays evergreen in warmer climates and may be semi-evergreen in colder ones. ## Site and Soil Grow in full sun for the heaviest flowering; light shade is tolerated. Candytuft prefers moist to slightly dry, well-drained soil and tolerates loam and sand, with alkaline or neutral pH. North Carolina State lists USDA hardiness zones 3a–8b. ## Maintenance After flowering, shear plants by about one-third to encourage fresh growth and maintain a compact outline. Avoid wet or poorly drained soil, which can cause crown rot. In colder climates, a winter mulch can help prevent damage.