Winter Cherry
drymaria cordata
Also known as: ["Winter Cherry","Winter Cherry Plant"]
Overview
A delicate herbaceous plant with small, heart-shaped leaves and white or pink flowers, often found in shaded, moist environments.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Drymaria |
| Botanical Name: | Drymaria cordata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with organic matter; can include peat, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade; adjust for intensity in summer to avoid leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; place in east-facing windows or shaded outdoor spots.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant dry out completely; ensure good drainage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Check drainage before planting; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations; avoid drafts or extreme temperature swings.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable room temperature; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; division of clumps is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water; peat and perlite can be added for soil propagation.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; use a mild rooting hormone if desired.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushiness; trim after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; water plant a day before; handle roots carefully; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water evenly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; focus on the root zone; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency in hot, dry seasons; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; yellowing or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid overwatering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use a fan for air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; monitor for signs of overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDrymaria cordata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicDrymaria cordata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicDrymaria cordata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Drymaria cordata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Drymaria cordata require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade or full shade.
Q: How often should I water Drymaria cordata?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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