Hairy Rupturewort (Herniaria hirsuta)

Hairy Rupturewort

Herniaria hirsuta

Tiny, mat-forming groundcover with delicate foliage, a quiet carpet of green. Low-growing ornamental; common name: hairy rupturewort.

Full sun
0–1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, exposed rock garden or paving gap sites
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Watering Highly drought-tolerant; water only during prolonged dry spells, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; tolerates hot, dry summer conditions without supplemental water
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oblong to elliptical, hairy bright green leaves arranged oppositely on thin stems
  • Flower: Tiny, greenish-white, inconspicuous blooms clustered in leaf axils
  • Stem: Trailing, branching densely to form a tight, low-growing mat
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Care Guide

Watering

Water sparingly only when soil is completely dry

Fertilization

Optional diluted balanced feed once every 2 months. Excess fertilizer can reduce mat density and disrupt the compact growth habit

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface once every 3 months to boost soil drainage and calcium content
Pruning
  • Trim stray stems in early spring to maintain a tight, uniform mat shape
  • Remove dead or yellowed foliage to improve overall appearance and airflow
  • Cut back overgrown patches after flowering to encourage dense new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known health risks

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

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, edging, and filling gaps in stone paving; helps reduce soil erosion on sloped sites