The Cerastium tomentosum is native to the alpine regions of Europe and is commonly named snow-in-summer. Snow-in-summer is a genus from the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae).
This plant is named snow-in-summer because when in full bloom it resembles a pile of snow. The word "tomentosum" is Latin for "felty". This is because the leaves are covered with small, white hairs that form whitish felting. This makes this perennial not only beautiful when covered in white flowers, but also when only the leaves are visible.
The Cerastium tomentosum forms a beautiful, dense, silver, carpet or waterfall if you let it grow over a wall or edge. If the snow-in-summer starts to take up too much space, you can easily cut it or tear it away. Digging up and dividing the Cerastium tomentosum makes it easy to propagate. This also allows you to keep it vigorous by replacing old and unsightly parts.
The snow-in-summer is not very demanding. It prefers poor, well-drained soil in a sunny spot. If the soil is too moist, the roots will rot. In the right place and circumstances this perennial grows vigorously. The stems that touch the ground develop roots. It will also propagate by seed. If the soil is too nutrient-rich, this plant becomes less compact and less appealing.
The snow-in-summer is very suitable as groundcover and for use in rock gardens. The Cerastium tomentosum is tolerant to salt and drought. In the regions with hot and humid summers the snow-in-summer is short-lived.
Attracts bees: yes
Characteristic: evergreen
Deer resistant: yes
Exposure: sun/part shade
Flower color: white
Flowering time: May – July
Foliage color: grey
Fragrant flower: no
Hardiness: -40 ºF/-40 ºC
Height: 6 inches/15 cm
Soil: normal/dry