Sand Pink
arenaria grandiflora
Also known as: ["Sandwort","Mountain Pink"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial with small, pink, five-petaled flowers and narrow, linear leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Arenaria |
| Botanical Name: | Arenaria grandiflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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, slightly sandy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); tolerates cooler conditions down to 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
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 potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
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; may need repotting if growth slows or drainage is poor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; 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 extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) for prolonged periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if exposed to excessive heat above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArenaria grandiflora is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain substances that are known to be harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicArenaria grandiflora does not contain known toxins that are harmful to dogs. The plant is not expected to cause any adverse effects if ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicArenaria grandiflora is not known to possess any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Arenaria grandiflora?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Sand Pink attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its small pink flowers.
Q: Can Arenaria grandiflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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