PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, low-fertility soils
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to extreme cold (USDA Zone 3) and moderate summer heat; avoid prolonged waterlogging in freezing temperatures
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow linear whorled leaves (6–8 per node), bright green, hairless
- Flower: Tiny white four-petaled blooms in loose terminal clusters
- Stem: Slender, branching square-shaped stems characteristic of the Rubiaceae family
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during extended dry spells; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Fertilization
Light top-dressing with compost optional; no regular fertilization required. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent leggy growth
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium without risk of burning shallow rootsPruning
- Trim back spent flower heads in early summer to maintain tidy growth
- Thin overcrowded patches in early spring to improve airflow and prevent disease
- Cut back to 5 cm above soil level in late autumn to prepare for winter dormancy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Low ground cover for rock gardens, border edges, or wildflower meadows; suppresses weeds with dense mat growth
