Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)

Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum) is a hardy low-growing perennial groundcover prized for its soft silvery foliage and masses of crisp white star-shaped flowers that blanket the plant in late spring to early summer. This drought-tolerant perennial creates a carpet-like effect in rock gardens, borders, slopes, and sunny landscape plantings.

The fuzzy silver-gray foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season and provides excellent contrast against green foliage plants and colourful flowering perennials. During bloom, the plant becomes covered in bright white flowers, creating the appearance of fresh snowfall across the landscape. Its spreading habit makes it especially effective for softening stone edges, cascading over retaining walls, and filling difficult dry garden spaces.

In Alberta, Snow-in-Summer performs best in full sun with sharply drained soil. It thrives in hot dry Prairie summers and tolerates poor rocky soils once established. Excellent drainage is especially important during winter months to help maintain healthy perennial growth.