How to Grow Crown of Snow
Wikimedia Commons
Crown of Snow
Arabis caucasica 'Variegata'
flowerCrown of Snow is a variegated evergreen perennial groundcover known for its small white flowers and striking cream and green foliage. This low-growing alpine plant forms dense mats and is excellent for rock gardens, borders, and container plantings. It blooms prolifically in spring with clusters of fragrant white flowers.
When should you plant Crown of Snow in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Crown of Snow timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Crown of Snow
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Crown of Snow blooms
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Crown of Snow dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, with excellent cold hardiness
Sign up free to see if Crown of Snow grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Crown of Snow timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny green rosettes emerge with delicate rounded leaves showing hints of variegation
Keep soil lightly moist; provide bright light; avoid damping-off by ensuring excellent air circulation
Vegetative
3-4 weeksVariegated foliage develops clearly with cream and green patterning; plant forms low mat 2-4 inches tall
Reduce watering frequency; transition to drier conditions; harden off seedlings gradually; minimal fertilizer needed
Pre-flowering
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at stem tips; plant becomes more compact and dense
Maintain dry conditions; provide full sun; do not overwater as excessive moisture reduces flowering
Flowering
4-6 weeksAbundant clusters of small white fragrant flowers appear above variegated foliage; creates striking contrast
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; water sparingly; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues
Post-flowering/Dormancy
Varies by seasonFlowers fade; plant may rest in hot summers; foliage remains attractive through winter
Cut back after flowering if desired for tidiness; provide winter drainage to prevent rot; minimal water in dormancy
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Row covers on young plants; spray with neem oil if infested; remove debris where they overwinter
-
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove affected plants; improve air circulation
-
and
Remove by hand; use copper barriers; encourage beneficial ground beetles
-
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove affected leaves; spray with sulfur if severe
Uses
Pollinator magnet
WildlifeThe fragrant white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other spring pollinators, making it valuable for supporting early-season insect populations. Bees particularly favor the abundant nectar-rich blooms. [source]
Rock garden and alpine displays
HouseholdCrown of Snow is an ideal choice for rock gardens, alpine troughs, and raised beds due to its low growth habit and stunning variegated foliage. Its evergreen nature provides year-round interest even when not in bloom. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
CraftThe delicate white flower clusters and attractive variegated foliage make excellent additions to spring floral arrangements and bouquets. Flowers have a subtle sweet fragrance. [source]
Groundcover and erosion control
HouseholdIts spreading mat-forming habit and drought tolerance make Crown of Snow useful for stabilizing slopes, covering bare ground, and reducing erosion while minimizing maintenance requirements. [source]
Edible flowers
CulinaryThe small white flowers are technically edible and can garnish salads or desserts for a delicate appearance, though primarily grown for ornamental value. Use pesticide-free flowers only. [source]
Harvest Tips
Crown of Snow is primarily ornamental and not typically harvested. Deadhead spent flower clusters for extended blooming. If collecting seeds, allow some flowers to fade naturally and collect dried seed pods in late summer. Cut foliage for arrangements while in bloom.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crown of Snow is a variegated cultivar of Arabis caucasica, originally from the Caucasus Mountains, giving it exceptional cold hardiness and adaptation to harsh alpine conditions.
- 🌱 The plant is evergreen and maintains its attractive variegated foliage year-round, providing ornamental interest even in winter and before spring flowering begins.
- 🌱 Despite its delicate appearance, Crown of Snow is remarkably tough and drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for water-wise, low-maintenance gardens and xeriscape designs.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Crown of Snow planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Crown of Snow seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Crown of Snow timeline →