Saltwort
spergularia marina
Also known as: ["Sea Sandwort","Marine Sandwort"]
Overview
A small, salt-tolerant annual plant with small pink or white flowers, typically found in coastal and saline environments.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Spergularia |
| Botanical Name: | Spergularia marina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or rockeries, or in containers with sandy soil mix
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
sandy, well-draining soil with moderate salinity tolerance
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent indoor temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor conditions.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if plant shows signs of stress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with bright indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; shape the plant evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
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 moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering if exposed to excessive heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpergularia marina is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpergularia marina is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSpergularia marina, commonly known as saltwort or sea sandwort, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been historically used in some coastal regions as a famine food or in traditional medicine, indicating a lack of significant toxicity.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Saltwort suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor coastal or saline environments.
Q: Does Saltwort require special soil conditions?
A: It thrives in saline or sandy soils, making it ideal for coastal areas.
Q: Does Saltwort attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its small, nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
