Iberis sempervirens 'Mermaid Lavender' (Candytuft) – Evergreen Perennial (2L Pot)

An evergreen candytuft that covers itself in soft lavender flowers in late spring above dark green foliage.

'Mermaid Lavender' makes a low, dense, bushy mound around 15 to 25cm tall and 30 to 50cm across, which suits the front of a border, an edging, a rockery, the top of a wall or a pot on a sunny patio. The foliage stays put through winter, so the planting keeps its shape when little else does.

Give it full sun and soil that drains freely, and use a gritty compost if you are growing it in a container. A light trim once the flowers fade keeps it compact and often brings a second flush. Bees work the flowers steadily, it is fully hardy, it stands salt wind well enough for a seaside garden, and deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Perennial candytuft
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: 15 to 25cm tall by 30 to 50cm wide
• Growth Habit: Low, bushy, mound forming evergreen
• Perfect For: Borders, edging, rockeries, walls, raised beds, containers
• Foliage: Dark green and evergreen
• Flowering Time: Late spring to early summer
• Planting Position: Full sun, and it will take some partial shade; suits coastal gardens and containers
• Soil Type: Moderately fertile, moist but well drained
• Hardiness: Fully hardy
• Maintenance: Low. Trim lightly after flowering
• Seasonal Interest: Spring and summer
• Type: Evergreen perennial