Siberian Spring Beauty, Candy Flower
claytonia sibirica
Also known as: ["Siberian Miner's Lettuce","Winter Purslane"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its delicate pink or white flowers and succulent leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Montiaceae |
| Genus: | Claytonia |
| Botanical Name: | Claytonia sibirica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when plant becomes leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. For indoor plants, place near east or north-facing windows. Outdoor plants benefit from dappled shade during peak afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Tolerates mild frost but grows best in cooler climates.
Keep plants away from heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer in the morning for better absorption; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when growth slows.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or after flowering when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. Beneficial for rejuvenating soil and encouraging growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly until it drains; discard excess water from saucers.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth (spring to early summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in dormancy (late summer to winter).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or wilting in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf discoloration or necrosis if prolonged below freezing.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during hard freezes; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering and seed set.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Avoid fertilizing in winter dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicClaytonia sibirica is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines, and ingestion is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicClaytonia sibirica is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines, and ingestion is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicClaytonia sibirica contains small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large quantities. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption in small amounts, but overconsumption may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Claytonia sibirica edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in salads.
Q: Does Claytonia sibirica require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate full shade.
Q: How often should I water Claytonia sibirica?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Montiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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