Iberis: A Gardener’s Delight
I’ve always been drawn to the delicate beauty of Iberis, commonly known as candytuft. There’s something about the profusion of tiny flowers clustered together, creating a blanket of white, pink, or purple that just captivates me. It’s a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes familiar vegetables like cabbage and broccoli. But unlike their edible relatives, Iberis species are primarily ornamental, prized for their ability to brighten up gardens and landscapes.
The name “candytuft” might conjure images of sweet treats, but it actually has nothing to do with candy. The name originates from Candia, the former name of Heraklion on the island of Crete, where some of the first Iberis species were introduced to Europe. This bit of etymology always reminds me of the rich history hidden within the seemingly simple things around us.
Diverse Species for Varied Landscapes
One of the things I appreciate most about Iberis is the diversity within the genus. With around 40 species of annuals, evergreen perennials, and subshrubs, there’s an Iberis for almost any garden setting. Here are:
- Iberis amara L.
- Iberis atlantica (Litard. & Maire) Greuter & Burdet
- Iberis attica Jord.
- Iberis aurosica Chaix
- Iberis balansae Jord.
- Iberis bernardiana Gren. & Godr.
- Iberis carica (Bornm.) Prain
- Iberis carnosa Willd.
- Iberis ciliata All.
- Iberis contracta Pers.
- Iberis fontqueri Pau
- Iberis gibraltarica L.
- Iberis grosii Pau
- Iberis gypsicola Yıld.
- Iberis halophila Vural & H.Duman
- Iberis intermedia Guers.
- Iberis linifolia L.
- Iberis nazarita Moreno
- Iberis odorata L.
- Iberis pectinata Boiss. & Reut.
- Iberis peyerimhoffii Maire
- Iberis pinnata L.
- Iberis procumbens Lange
- Iberis runemarkii Greuter & Burdet
- Iberis saxatilis L.
- Iberis semperflorens L.
- Iberis sempervirens L.
- Iberis simplex DC.
- Iberis spathulata DC.
- Iberis spruneri Jord.
- Iberis timeroyi Jord.
- Iberis umbellata L.
Do deer eat iberis?
Deer typically avoid eating iberis, due to its bitter taste and strong scent. This makes it a great choice for gardens in areas where deer browsing is a concern.
How to grow iberis?
To grow iberis, start by selecting a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant the seeds or seedlings in early spring or fall, spacing them about 6 to 12 inches apart. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize them lightly in spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
How to propagate iberis?
Propagate iberis by taking stem cuttings in late spring or early summer. Choose healthy stems with several sets of leaves, and cut them just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide bright, indirect light until roots develop.
Is iberis a perennial?
Iberis is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for multiple growing seasons. With proper care, it can continue to bloom year after year, adding beauty to your garden season after season.
Is iberis evergreen?
Iberis is not typically evergreen, but some varieties may retain their foliage year-round in milder climates. In colder regions, it may lose its leaves in winter and regrow them in spring.
Is iberis poisonous? Is iberis poisonous to dogs?
Iberis is not considered poisonous to humans or pets, including dogs. It’s safe to have in your garden without worrying about potential toxicity.
Does iberis spread?
Iberis can spread somewhat, especially if it’s happy in its growing conditions. However, it’s generally not overly aggressive and can be easily controlled with regular pruning and maintenance.
How long does iberis bloom?
Iberis blooms for several weeks in spring, typically from late April to early June, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage prolonged blooming.
Are iberis tolerant to droubt?
Iberis is moderately drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Can iberis live indoors?
Iberis is best grown outdoors in a garden or landscape setting, as it requires full sun and well-draining soil to thrive. It’s not well-suited for indoor growing conditions.
Do bees like iberis?
Bees are attracted to the nectar-rich flowers of iberis, making it a valuable plant for pollinators in the garden.
Do grubs eat iberis?
Grubs are not typically a major pest of iberis, but they may occasionally feed on the roots or foliage. Monitor your plants for signs of grub damage and treat as needed to protect your iberis.
How long iberis flowers last?
Iberis flowers typically last for several weeks, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce new blooms and prolong the flowering period.
How to prune iberis?
Prune iberis lightly after flowering to remove spent flowers and encourage bushier growth. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowering in the following season.
Is iberis and candytuft the same?
Iberis and candytuft are indeed the same plant, with “iberis” being the botanical name and “candytuft” being a common name.
Is iberis hardy?
Iberis is generally considered hardy and can tolerate a range of growing conditions, including cold temperatures and poor soil.
Is iberis the same as thrift?
Iberis is not the same as thrift (Armeria maritima), although they are both low-growing, spreading perennials with clusters of small flowers. Thrift has grass-like foliage and is typically found in coastal areas.
What color does iberis come in?
Iberis comes in a variety of colors, including white, pink, lavender, and purple. Some varieties may also have variegated foliage for added interest.
When does iberis flower?
Iberis typically flowers in spring, from late April to early June, depending on the variety and growing conditions. It’s a welcome sight in the garden, adding color and fragrance to the landscape after the winter months.
