Evergreen candytuft and Heather are often considered for the same spot in the garden (ground cover, flowers, container, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Iberis sempervirens 25 cm × 45 cm after 10 years
A low, cushion-forming subshrub with dark green, leathery leaves, covered in spring by so many pure white flowers that the foliage almost…
Calluna vulgaris 40 cm × 50 cm after 10 years
A low evergreen dwarf shrub with tiny scale-like leaves that covers itself in pink, purple, red or white flower spikes from late summer into autumn;…
Evergreen candytuft is hardier: down to -40 °C, against -34 °C for Heather.
Evergreen candytuft tolerates drought better than Heather.
Evergreen candytuft needs less care than Heather.
|
Feature
|
Evergreen candytuft
|
Heather
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Ground cover | Ground cover |
| Size after 10 years | 25 cm × 45 cm | 40 cm × 50 cm |
| Ultimate size | 15–30 cm × 15–45 cm | 10–60 cm × 30–60 cm |
| Growth rate | Medium | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Sandy, Calcareous | Acidic, Sandy |
| Hardiness | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Evergreen | Evergreen |
| Flowering | April–May, white | July–October, pink, purple, red, white |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | Low |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium |
| Planting distance | 30 cm | 35 cm |
| For dogs | no data | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For children | Mildly toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. HUF 1,400 | approx. HUF 1,600 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 8, 2026
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