Mountain Sandwort (Arenaria montana)

Mountain Sandwort

Arenaria montana

Dense carpet of tiny white blooms, a soft cloud over rocky slopes. Low-growing evergreen perennial; common name: mountain sandwort.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates rocky, exposed sites; avoid deep shade
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands cool temperate winters; avoid prolonged extreme heat over 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear evergreen leaves; glossy dark green, arranged in opposite pairs along trailing stems
  • Flower: Tiny five-petaled white blooms; clustered in loose terminal heads, 1–2 cm in diameter
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems form dense, spreading mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth period

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-strength, balanced fertilizer to support flowering

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle thin layer on soil surface; avoid direct root contact to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower stems to encourage compact, dense growth
  • Thin overcrowded mats in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Remove dead foliage in late winter to refresh the mat and promote new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no recorded toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Rock garden ground cover, alpine container plant, border edging