Snow in Summer: A Silvery Cascade for Your Garden
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a waterfall of tiny white stars tumbling through your garden, snow in summer (Cerastium tomentosum) might just be the plant you’re looking for. This charming ground cover earned its poetic common name from the way its masses of small white flowers create the illusion of fresh snow blanketing the landscape, even in the heat of summer.
What is Snow in Summer?
Snow in summer is an annual forb – essentially a soft-stemmed herbaceous plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season. Despite being an annual, this Mediterranean native has made itself quite at home across North America, from the chilly reaches of Alaska to the temperate zones of North Carolina.
Where Does It Grow?
Originally hailing from the Mediterranean region, snow in summer has established itself as a non-native species across a surprisingly wide range of North America. You’ll find it growing wild (and in gardens) throughout British Columbia, Alaska, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Newfoundland.
Why Gardeners Love (and Sometimes Tolerate) Snow in Summer
There’s no denying that snow in summer has its charms:
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it laughs in the face of dry spells
- Low maintenance: Perfect for gardeners who prefer plants that don’t demand constant attention
- Versatile beauty: Works wonderfully in rock gardens, as border edging, or cascading over retaining walls
- Extended interest: The silvery-gray foliage provides year-round appeal, while white star-shaped flowers create stunning displays in late spring and early summer
- Pollinator friendly: Bees and small butterflies appreciate the nectar-rich blooms
Growing Snow in Summer Successfully
The good news? Snow in summer is refreshingly easy to please. Here’s what it needs to thrive:
Location and Conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun is best – this plant loves to bask
- Soil: Well-draining is crucial; it actually prefers poor to average soil over rich, fertile ground
- Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 3-7, making it suitable for a wide range of climates
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant in spring after the last frost date
- Space plants appropriately to allow for spreading
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency once established
- Trim back after flowering to maintain tidy appearance and potentially encourage additional blooms
- Be aware that it may self-seed readily in favorable conditions
A Word About Native Alternatives
While snow in summer isn’t considered invasive, many gardeners today are choosing to prioritize native plants that better support local ecosystems. If you’re interested in native alternatives that offer similar aesthetic appeal, consider researching native ground covers or low-growing perennials suited to your specific region. Your local native plant society or extension office can provide excellent recommendations for plants that will provide beauty while supporting local wildlife.
The Bottom Line
Snow in summer offers reliable beauty with minimal fuss, making it an understandable choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance ground cover. Its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils make it particularly valuable in challenging growing conditions. Whether you choose to grow it or opt for native alternatives, the key is creating a garden that brings you joy while being mindful of your local ecosystem.
