Ridgepod

mollugo nudicaulis

Also known as: ["Ridgepod plant","Naked-stemmed carpetweed"]

Family: Molluginaceae Genus: Mollugo Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A low-growing, spreading herbaceous plant with small, inconspicuous flowers and fleshy leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Molluginaceae
Genus: Mollugo
Botanical Name: Mollugo nudicaulis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in warm, sunny areas
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; move outdoors in spring/summer for better light.

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 moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.

Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in fall/winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove leggy growth and spent stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and root space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure 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.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures; leaf drop in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Mollugo nudicaulis can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Mollugo nudicaulis is typically a response to water stress, either due to drought or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Mollugo nudicaulis may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if the infection spreads.

Rotting in Mollugo nudicaulis is often associated with excessive moisture or fungal infections, particularly affecting the roots and lower stems, which can lead to plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Mollugo nudicaulis is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds harmful to felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

As with any plant, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but the plant itself is not toxic.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Mollugo nudicaulis does not pose a toxic risk to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets for any unusual behavior after ingestion, though the plant is not expected to cause harm.
Humans
Non-toxic

Mollugo nudicaulis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material should be avoided without proper botanical or medical consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Mollugo nudicaulis toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.

Q: How fast does Mollugo nudicaulis grow?

A: It is a fast-growing plant that spreads quickly.

Q: Does Mollugo nudicaulis require much care?

A: No, it is very low maintenance and highly tolerant of harsh conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Molluginaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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