Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft

Iberis sempervirens 'Forte'

Nature Hills Nursery

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft Delivers Weeks of Dense, Snowy-White Blooms with Superior Vigor
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-8
Grows 1 ft Tall and Wide
Showy White Blooms From Early Spring to Late Spring
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Rabbit Resistant

$35⁷⁵

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Plant Size

#1 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Give this Candytuft at least six hours of direct sun daily for the densest growth and most prolific "snowstorm" of flowers. If you garden in a hotter climate (like Zone 8 or higher), allowing for light afternoon shade is acceptable, but expect slightly less intense blooming.
Soil: Aim for lean, well-drained soil, thinking gravelly or rocky like its Mediterranean origins. Drainage is key: avoid heavy clay, which holds too much water and can lead to root rot. To amend a problem area, simply incorporate a large amount of coarse sand or fine gravel into the planting bed to ensure rapid water runoff.

Watering Requirements

When establishing your new plant, water regularly—about once per week—to keep the soil lightly moist until you see reliable new growth. Once mature, Snowsurfer™ Forte is impressively drought-tolerant; aim to water only when the top two inches of soil feel completely dry. Inconsistent watering or overly wet conditions will stress the plant, leading to sparse blooming and increasing the risk of root rot, so err on the side of too little rather than too much water.

Pruning Tips

Candytuft blooms on old wood, meaning the growth from the previous season. The best time to prune is immediately after the spring flowering show is completely finished. Treat it like a gentle haircut: shear the entire plant back by about one-third of its volume to remove spent blooms and shape the evergreen foliage mound. This technique encourages new, healthy green growth and helps prevent the plant from becoming leggy or developing a woody, sparse center over time.

Fertilizer Needs

This plant thrives in lean conditions and rarely needs heavy feeding. If your soil is poor, apply a slow-release, balanced granular fertilizer, or one slightly higher in phosphorus, in early spring before new growth begins. What to avoid: Do not apply high-nitrogen fertilizer or fertilize late in the season (after mid-summer). Excess nitrogen or late feeding encourages weak, floppy growth and reduces winter hardiness, making the evergreen foliage more susceptible to winter damage.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Evergreen, Groundcover, Flowering, Deer-resistant, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone	3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	1 ft
Width	1 ft
Watering Needs	Low
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Bushy, Compact, Spreading
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	White
Foliage Color	Green
Fragrant	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors, Container
Botanical Name	Iberis sempervirens 'Forte'
Species	sempervirens
Cultivar	Forte
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft – A Snowy Spring Carpet!

Welcome a flood of dazzling white flowers into your garden with Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens 'Forte'). This low-growing, evergreen perennial bursts into bloom in early spring, covering itself in a dense, snowy-white floral display that lasts for weeks!

Unlike traditional Candytuft varieties, Snowsurfer™ Forte boasts improved vigor, enhanced bloom coverage, and extended flowering time. This means more color, longer-lasting beauty, and easy maintenance for gardeners who love a showy display without the extra work.

Its lush green, finely-textured foliage remains vibrant year-round, even remaining evergreen in mild winter climates. Whether you're looking for a trailing plant for retaining walls, edging for pathways, or a pollinator-friendly groundcover, Snowsurfer™ Forte delivers effortless charm in every season!

Why You’ll Love Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft

Early Spring Blooms – One of the first flowers to bloom, creating a blanket of white as the season begins.
Dense, Low-Growing Habit – Forms a compact, spreading mat of lush foliage, ideal for groundcover.
Evergreen Foliage – Deep green, finely-textured leaves are attractive year-round, even in mild winters.
Cold Hardy & Heat Tolerant – Thrives in USDA zones 4-9, adapting to a variety of climates.
Drought-Resistant & Easy to Grow – Once established, Candytuft requires minimal water and care!
Deer & Rabbit Resistant – Not a preferred snack for browsing wildlife.
Pollinator-Friendly – Attracts butterflies and bees, supporting a healthy ecosystem.
Versatile in the Landscape – Grows 6-12 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches, making it perfect for small spaces and mass plantings.

Landscaping Uses of Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft in Your Garden

With its lush, spreading, ground-hugging growth and bright white flowers, this Candytuft is a versatile, high-impact plant that enhances any outdoor space. Consider planting it to:

Create a Glowing Border Along Walkways & Garden Paths – A neat, low-maintenance edging plant.
Fill Gaps in Rock Gardens or Between Pavers – Thrives in dry, rocky soil and well-draining locations.
Brighten Up Slopes & Hillsides – A perfect erosion control groundcover that prevents soil loss.
Use in Mass Plantings for a Stunning Carpet of Flowers – Multiple plants create a flowing sea of white in spring.
Enhance Pollinator Gardens – A valuable early-season nectar source for bees and butterflies.
Pair with Spring-Blooming Bulbs – Complements Daffodils, Tulips, and Hyacinths beautifully.

Candytuft Growing & Care Guide

Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade; best flowering occurs with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Soil: Thrives in well-drained, sandy, or rocky soil; avoid wet, heavy clay.
Watering: Low to moderate; water regularly when newly planted, then only during extended dry spells.
Pruning: Shear back lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
Mulch: Spread a 3-4 inch deep layer of mulch around these plants to combat weeds and retain soil moisture.
Spacing: Plant 12-18 inches apart for a dense, continuous spread.

Order Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft Toda!

For early-season color, evergreen beauty, and effortless charm, Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft is the perfect addition to any garden. With its long-lasting blooms, low-maintenance nature, and pollinator-friendly appeal, this hardy evergreen perennial brings reliable elegance to your landscape.

Want a low-maintenance, evergreen groundcover that blooms in a sea of white? Order Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft today from Nature Hills Nursery!

Explore More from Nature Hills

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft makes an excellent addition to any collection of perennials, serving double duty as one of the most reliable groundcovers for sunny locations. This hardy plant thrives alongside other drought tolerant and deer resistant plants, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens. For more inspiration, explore our guide to Check Out Spring Blooming Perennials for Early Spring Color! and learn how to Create The Perfect Mixed Perennial Garden!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft suitable for?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates from cold northern regions to warmer southern areas. This cold hardy and heat tolerant perennial performs well across diverse growing conditions. Plant it confidently in most temperate US regions.

What is the mature size and height of Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft reaches 6-12 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide at maturity. This compact, low-growing habit makes it excellent for edging, groundcover, or small garden spaces. Shop at Nature Hills for this versatile perennial.

Does Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft ship to my state or zip code?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft thrives in USDA zones 4-9, covering most of the continental United States. This hardy perennial adapts to diverse climates from cold northern regions to warm southern areas. Check your specific zip code's growing zone to confirm compatibility before ordering.

How long does Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft bloom, and when?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft blooms in early spring for several weeks, making it one of the first perennials to flower each season. This improved variety offers extended flowering time compared to traditional Candytuft. Plant in fall for best spring establishment and bloom.

Is Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft deer and rabbit resistant?

Yes, Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft is both deer and rabbit resistant. Its evergreen foliage and dense white spring blooms aren't preferred by browsing wildlife. Plant it confidently in zones 4-9 for low-maintenance groundcover that stays protected from garden pests, available at naturehills.com.

What are the watering and care requirements for Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft after planting?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft is drought-resistant once established and requires minimal water and care. Water regularly the first growing season to establish roots, then reduce to occasional deep watering during dry spells. This low-maintenance perennial thrives in zones 4-9 with little intervention after establishment.

What is the growth rate and spacing for planting Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft as a groundcover?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft grows 6-12 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide with a moderate growth rate. This low-growing perennial forms a dense, spreading mat that works well as groundcover in zones 4-9. Space plants 12-15 inches apart for solid coverage within 1-2 seasons.

What type of sun exposure does Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft need?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This hardy perennial performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. Plant in a location with morning sun and afternoon protection in zones 8-9 for best results.

What soil type and drainage does Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft require?

Snowsurfer™ Forte Candytuft thrives in well-draining soil and tolerates poor, rocky, or sandy conditions. This drought-resistant perennial actually prefers lean soils over rich, heavy clay that retains moisture. Plant in areas with good drainage to prevent root rot and ensure optimal performance in zones 4-9.