Snow in summer is such an appropriate description for Cerastium tomentosum. It is commonly seen in gardens and, for that reason, I think we take it for granted. It's a really useful plant though. It's quite tolerant and grows quite rapidly, covering ugly pieces of ground and even when it's not in flower the delightful little silver leaves are pretty to look at. The silver leaves tell us that this is a plant that really tolerates hot sunshine and likes good drainage. Silver leaves reflect the heat of the sun. I have planted it in a border as ground cover between taller plants. I've also planted it near stepping stones to cover up a piece of my garden that has a drain cover just a few centimetres under the surface of the soil. It's a must have in my garden. It may be a horrible, rainy, start to June on the Pennine Mountains of West Yorkshire but this plant is smiling through the rain. Don't forget, also, that white flowers stand out in a garden at dusk when coloured flowers turn to grey.
 |
| Cerastium tomentosum |
Cerastium tomentosum is a hardy, mat-forming, spreading, deciduous perennial, which flowers late spring and summer. It achieves a height of about 15cm (6in). It likes full sun and will tolerate exposed situations. It's not fussy about soil types, apparently, but needs to be well-draining. Mine grows in a fairly neutral soil, bordering acid in places.
