Winged Candytuft (Iberis pinnata)

Winged Candytuft

Iberis pinnata

Dense clusters of white blooms carpet low mounds, a cheerful spring groundcover. Annual flowering herb; common name: winged candytuft.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot, arid regions to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates light frost down to 5°C; prefers cool to temperate growing conditions for optimal flowering
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow linear to lanceolate gray-green leaves, slightly hairy texture
  • Flower: Dense terminal umbels of four-petaled white flowers, occasionally tinged pale pink
  • Stem: Slender, branching stems forming tight, spreading mounds
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote abundant blooms

Eggshell powder topdress:Sprinkle finely ground, dried eggshells on soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period
  • Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to encourage bushier, compact growth
  • Remove faded foliage at the end of the growing season to tidy planting areas
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental groundcover, border edging, rock garden plant; small cut flower for tabletop arrangements