Annual candytuft - Iberis amara (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Annual candytuft

Also known as: Bitter candytuft

Annual candytuft is a hardy, ornamental plant capable of tolerating poor soils where most do not. Its Latin name (Iberis amara) hints to its native land of Spain, the former Iberia, while Amara comes from the Latin word "amarus" referring to its bitterness. The plant is often found in chalky grasslands, quarries, and other highly alkaline soils.

Scientific classification

Species

Annual candytuft (Iberis amara)

Mustards, capers, and allies

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Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

15 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Annual candytuft

Distribution of Annual candytuft

Distribution Map

Annual candytuft is native to Western and Southern Europe and has been introduced to various regions across Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Americas, along with Oceania. Annual candytuft spreads beyond its native range through cultivation and is well-established in temperate zones across continents.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassland

Quickly Identify Annual candytuft

Distinctive corymb inflorescence with 10-30 small flowers

Flowers have irregular, fragrant 4-petal structure

Ovate fruit with notched apex and winged seeds

Erect stem with branching distally, reaching 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter

Leaves are stalkless, sparsely hairy, and 1.5-3 inches (4-8 cm) long

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Care Guide for Annual candytuft

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Annual candytuft, native to the Mediterranean, thrives in well-drained soil and requires consistent moisture without waterlogging. Watering weekly promotes growth and flowering in this annual plant, which needs careful hydration during its single growing season to ensure vibrant blooms, especially outdoors.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, annual candytuft needs regular fertilization with a high phosphorus formula to boost flowering. Apply a diluted balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, adjusting frequency in autumn. Ensure even distribution to prevent root burn and avoid over-fertilization.

Pruning: Annual candytuft produces fragrant white flower clusters. Prune in early to late spring for denser growth and enhanced blooms. Remove spent flowers and damaged stems to improve air circulation and health. Avoid excessive summer pruning and use clean tools to prevent infections.

Propagation: Annual candytuft is a vibrant flowering plant that enhances garden aesthetics. Propagate by sowing seeds in well-drained soil under full sun, keeping the soil moist until germination in a couple of weeks. Ensure proper spacing and soil preparation for optimal growth and blooms.

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