Iberis ' Purple Candytuft'

Also known as Purple Candytuft or Iberis, this charming annual produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that range in tone from soft mauve to pink and off-white. The blooms form in wide, flat-topped umbels that attract pollinators and beneficial insects all season long. With its naturally spreading habit, Iberis is perfect for filling in gaps at the front of borders, softening edges in containers, or weaving through rock gardens and xeriscapes.

What makes Iberis especially delightful is its speed—plants begin to flower just weeks after sowing. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and while it may gently self-sow under ideal conditions, it won’t become invasive. Drought tolerant, low maintenance, and endlessly useful in cut flower arrangements or wild-style gardens.

DETAILS:

QTY: 100

TYPE: Annual - Zone 3-8

SITE: Full Sun / Part Shade

DEPTH: Barely Cover 

GERMINATION: 10-20 days at 21-30°C

HEIGHT: 10 - 12"

MATURITY: 70 - 90 Days

SPACING: 6-8"

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:

Direct Sowing (recommended): Sow seeds directly outdoors from your last frost date through mid-July for staggered, continuous blooms. Lightly cover the seeds and keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically takes 10–20 days. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to a final spacing of 6–8" apart.

Transplanting (alternative): Starting seeds indoors is optional. If you choose this method, start seeds 6 weeks before your last frost date. Sow them in peat or coir pots to reduce root disturbance. Lightly cover the seeds and use bottom heat for faster germination. Mist or bottom water to avoid displacing the seeds. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting them outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. Handle gently to protect the roots.

Pinching: No pinching is required for Iberis. After flowering, you can lightly trim the plants to encourage a second bloom.

Soil Preference and Watering: Iberis prefers well-drained soil and will not tolerate overly wet conditions. It thrives in full sun. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically necessary. Iberis performs best in average to lean soil.

Other Tips: Iberis may self-sow in ideal conditions, creating a naturalized look in your garden in future seasons.