Sand Pink
holosteum umbellatum
Also known as: ["Sand Pink","Spring Sandwort"]
Overview
A small annual plant with pinkish-white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Holosteum |
| Botanical Name: | Holosteum umbellatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct sun indoors unless acclimated.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure good drainage; avoid compacted soil; use a mix suitable for succulents or alpine plants.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures to avoid shock.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding; stem cuttings are more reliable for controlled propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation 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 in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
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, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; keep cuttings warm and humid; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape lightly if desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with additional drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but ensure good drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only; avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHolosteum umbellatum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHolosteum umbellatum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHolosteum umbellatum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Holosteum umbellatum toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Holosteum umbellatum?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Holosteum umbellatum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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