Rock spurry
spergula rupicola
Also known as: ["Rock spurry"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant native to rocky habitats, characterized by its delicate stems and small, green leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Spergula |
| Botanical Name: | Spergula rupicola |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rocky, or sandy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove spent flowers.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Tolerates some direct sun but prefers filtered light, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant 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 deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, rocky or sandy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method for Spergula rupicola.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended to encourage faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–4 weeks; new growth may take an additional 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Spergula rupicola prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, 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 completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and slow growth, especially if soil is wet.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure well-drained soil; move indoors during freezing temperatures.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpergula rupicola is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpergula rupicola is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSpergula rupicola is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is not typically used as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Spergula rupicola toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: Where does Spergula rupicola grow naturally?
A: It is native to rocky habitats and thrives in well-drained, dry conditions.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Spergula rupicola?
A: It requires moderate care, with low maintenance needs once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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