Saltwort
spergularia media
Also known as: ["Sand Spurrey","Common Sand Spurrey"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant with slender stems and small, pinkish flowers, often found in coastal and saline environments.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Spergularia |
| Botanical Name: | Spergularia media |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: coastal areas, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun to prevent scorching. Place in a location with unobstructed sunlight, especially in cooler climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water sparingly; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil; use sandy mix.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts.
Protect from extreme heat; tolerate light frosts; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
rarely required, every 3–4 months with balanced liquid fertilizer if grown in containers
Use weak fertilizer solutions; fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common. Can also be propagated by stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Or take stem cuttings.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, bright location with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks. Stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, well-draining mix, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds thinly; keep consistently moist; use bottom heat for faster germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or overgrown stems at the base.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain appearance.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead stems; check for disease; prune after flowering.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Generally not required unless grown in containers. Repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; avoid overhead watering; ensure drainage.
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 allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth in prolonged cold; yellowing leaves in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth but can tolerate light frosts. Prolonged cold may cause dormancy or dieback.
Solution: Provide frost protection in harsh winters. Mulch lightly to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch in intense heat, especially if soil is dry.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpergularia media is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpergularia media is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSpergularia media, commonly known as saltwort or common sandspurry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has no significant toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Spergularia media toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where is Spergularia media commonly found?
A: It is often found in coastal areas and saline environments.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Spergularia media?
A: It is very easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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