Knotted Pearlwort
sagina nodosa
Also known as: ["Common Pearlwort","Knotted Pearlwort"]
Overview
A small, low-growing perennial herb with tiny white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Sagina |
| Botanical Name: | Sagina nodosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or as a ground cover in cooler climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day, with protection from intense midday sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; ideal for shaded garden beds or containers.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is best; avoid hot afternoon sun; provide dappled shade in summer.
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-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid water-retentive soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid hot, dry conditions; maintain consistent cool temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (60–70°F).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or trim stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out tangled roots; place in a pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; Sagina nodosa prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
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 for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
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
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid planting in exposed areas; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSagina nodosa is not toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSagina nodosa is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSagina nodosa, commonly known as knotted pearlwort, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sagina nodosa toxic to pets?
A: No, Sagina nodosa is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should Sagina nodosa be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Sagina nodosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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