Sandwort
arenaria ciliata
Also known as: ["Sand Pink","Ciliate Sandwort"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with small, pink flowers and fine, grass-like leaves, native to rocky and sandy habitats.
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 ciliata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in filtered light during peak summer hours. Outdoor placement is ideal if protected from harsh midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during hottest part of day; avoid direct sun in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to shape the plant.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; place in a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Avoid frequent repotting as it prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, targeting the root zone. Ensure water penetrates deeply but excess drains away. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. 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 excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage or death if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cold frame or indoor placement. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop. Growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArenaria ciliata is not toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been documented in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicArenaria ciliata does not pose a toxic risk to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicArenaria ciliata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Arenaria ciliata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Sandwort attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its small pink flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Q: Can Arenaria ciliata be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in rock gardens or sandy soils, as it requires ample sunlight and good drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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