Sandwort
moehringia lateriflora
Also known as: ["Gravel Grass","Sandwort","Sand Pink"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with small, star-shaped white flowers and narrow, linear leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Moehringia |
| Botanical Name: | Moehringia lateriflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching. Place in filtered sunlight indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
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 potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or trim stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; handle roots carefully; 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
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 slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in cold weather; ensure well-drained soil to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMoehringia lateriflora is not considered toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been reported in felines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMoehringia lateriflora is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMoehringia lateriflora is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Moehringia lateriflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its small white flowers.
Q: Is this plant suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils and is often used in rock gardens.
Q: How often should I water Moehringia lateriflora?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings; it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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