Thyme-leaved Sandwort (Arenaria serpyllifolia)

Thyme-leaved Sandwort

Arenaria serpyllifolia

It forms delicate flowering mats of tiny white blooms, a charming addition to rock gardens. Low-growing annual herbaceous ground cover.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open, sunny, well-ventilated locations
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts; tolerates cool to warm temperate seasonal fluctuations
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oval to linear, opposite, glabrous, thyme-like foliage
  • Flower: Tiny white five-petaled blooms in loose terminal clusters
  • Stem: Slender, branching, prostrate to ascending growth habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Water lightly when the top 2 cm of soil is fully dry

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-strength feed to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface; gently work into top 1 cm to improve soil drainage and nutrient availability
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage prolonged blooming
  • Trim back overgrown stems in late summer to maintain a tidy mat form
  • Remove yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens, wildflower mixes, and green roof plantings