Snow-in-Summer
cerastium glomeratum
Also known as: ["Thyme-leaved Snow-in-Summer","Crowded Mouse-ear Chickweed"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial with silvery-gray foliage and star-shaped white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Cerastium |
| Botanical Name: | Cerastium glomeratum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral, pH 6.5–7.5.
Use a gritty mix; avoid overwatering; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; shield from intense summer heat; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; use a balanced formula; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for Cerastium glomeratum.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or shear lightly; deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; check for root-bound roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume parts of Cerastium glomeratum. The saponins present can cause irritation, but severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cerastium glomeratum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically transient and resolve without long-term health consequences.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCerastium glomeratum contains saponins which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild discomfort and is not considered life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Cerastium glomeratum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Snow-in-Summer attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its white flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Cerastium glomeratum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it is suitable for container gardening, provided it has good drainage and full sun exposure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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