Grey Rupturewort (Herniaria cinerea)

Grey Rupturewort

Herniaria cinerea

Low-growing mat-forming groundcover, soft silvery foliage adds subtle texture to rock gardens. Common name: Grey Rupturewort.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates hot, dry conditions once established; avoid deep shade which causes leggy growth
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Watering Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once fully rooted; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands summer heat up to 35°C without significant damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, elliptical, silvery-grey, densely hairy, arranged oppositely on stems
  • Flower: Tiny, greenish-white, inconspicuous clusters in leaf axils
  • Stem: Slender, trailing, rooting at nodes to form a tight, cohesive mat
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Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally to establish young plants; reduce watering once mature and drought-tolerant

Fertilization

Light top-dressing of compost in early spring to support growth. No regular fertilization needed for established plants

Composted eggshell powder:Grind dried eggshells to a fine powder; dust lightly over soil surface in early spring to boost soil structure without causing nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown edges in early spring to maintain a tight, neat mat form
  • Remove any dead or discolored foliage to improve airflow and appearance
  • Clear accumulated debris from the mat surface to reduce pest and fungal risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, between paving stones, alpine troughs, and slope stabilization