A perennial cushion-like plant with white or pink, cross-shaped flowers, suitable for growing in a rock gardens or alpine house.
The leaves are grey-green and the small white / pink flowers are produced from February to June.
It is a low growing, semi-deciduous plant that grows to around 200 mm high, (8”) and has a spread of around 600mm (2ft), and some varieties can be quite invasive.
It will thrive in a well drained alkaline soil.
Cultivation
Week 25:
Sow seed into a proprietory seed compost and germinate at 16°-20°C (61°-68°F)
Prick out the seedlings when they are large enough to handle, and place them in a coldframe to harden off until planting out time.
Circa week 30:
Plant out the plants 300-500mm (12"-18") apart in full sun in well-drained soil.
(Plant the plants no deeper than they were when growing in containers.)
Prior to planting prepare the area with a light application of organic fertiliser.
After planting apply a dusting of lime on top of the soil around the plant, then cover with a 75mm (3") mulch of organic compost.
Water well on completion.
Week 36:
Cut / Shear plants hard back after flowering.
If more stock is required lift, divide, and replant the divisions now.
