Irish Moss
sagina subulata
Also known as: ["Pearlwort","Scotch Moss"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial with tiny, needle-like leaves and small white flowers, often used as a ground cover.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Sagina |
| Botanical Name: | Sagina subulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: ground cover in rock gardens or lawns with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or chalky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates more shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide dappled shade in summer; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on weather and soil moisture.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil drains well; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better growth.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates and can tolerate frost.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch in winter; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid burning roots; apply after watering to prevent nutrient shock; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in moist soil or water.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix (e.g., peat moss and perlite) or water.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, moist soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back straggly stems; shear lightly for shape; remove dead or diseased parts.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage dense growth; remove dead or damaged foliage as needed.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears, scissors, or hand pruners.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; Sagina subulata prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Can survive light frost but prolonged cold may damage foliage and slow growth.
Solution: Mulch lightly in winter to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions; protect from harsh winds.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause foliage to scorch, wilt, or turn brown; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSagina subulata is not toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSagina subulata is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSagina subulata, commonly known as Irish moss, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been used in culinary applications and as a decorative ground cover without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Irish Moss?
A: Irish Moss can be propagated by dividing the clumps in spring or early fall, or by taking stem cuttings.
Q: Does Irish Moss require full sun?
A: Irish Moss prefers partial shade to full shade, especially in warmer climates.
Q: Is Irish Moss invasive?
A: Irish Moss is not considered invasive; it spreads slowly and can be easily controlled.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
