Candytuft, Globe candytuft
Iberis umbellata
Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae
What it is like
Iberis umbellata is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in) at a fast rate. It is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Bushy and rocky places on calcareous soils.
S. Europe.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
Easily grown in a good, well-drained ordinary garden soil in a sunny position. Prefers a calcareous soil but tolerates mildly acid soils. Succeeds in poor soils and on dry walls. A very ornamental plant. A fast-growing plant. Do not grow the plants too close together. A good butterfly, moth and bee plant.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ for summer flowering or late summer in situ for a spring flowering. The seed germinates within 3 weeks.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds; East Wall. In. South Wall. In. West Wall. In.
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth: Fast
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist