Hybrid Sandwort (Minuartia hybrida)

Hybrid Sandwort

Minuartia hybrida

Tiny star-shaped blooms dot low mats of green, a delicate ground cover. Low-growing perennial herb; common name: hybrid sandwort.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal salt exposure and dry, windy conditions
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Watering Water deeply when top 2 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -20°C; adapts to cool temperate and alpine growing conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, evergreen leaves arranged in opposite pairs along slender stems.
  • Flower: Small white star-shaped blooms with five petals, clustered at stem tips.
  • Stem: Trailing or upright, forming dense, low-growing mats to suppress weeds.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote compact, flowering growth

Crushed eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around plant bases to improve soil drainage and add calcium; avoid overapplication to prevent soil alkalinity
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower stems to encourage tidy, compact growth
  • Thin overcrowded mats in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Remove dead foliage in late winter to promote new spring growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no documented adverse reactions

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans; safe for handling and consumption in small quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens, alpine landscapes; coastal erosion control