Spring Sandwort 'Aurea' (Minuartia verna 'Aurea')

Spring Sandwort 'Aurea'

Minuartia verna 'Aurea'

Golden-edged foliage glows in rock gardens, a low-growing evergreen gem. Mat-forming alpine perennial; common name: Spring Sandwort 'Aurea'.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright, open rock garden conditions, with protection from intense midday sun in warmer regions
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Watering Water sparingly; allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C for cold alpine winters; avoid prolonged temperatures above 25°C to prevent foliage scorch
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow linear evergreen leaves with golden-yellow margins, densely packed along trailing stems
  • Flower: Tiny white star-shaped blooms with five petals, held above foliage on thin, delicate stalks
  • Stem: Slender trailing stems that form tight, spreading, low-growing mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 6 weeks. Use only diluted, low-nitrogen feed to prevent leggy growth

Crushed eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface every 3 months; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy stems immediately after flowering to maintain compact mat shape
  • Remove dead foliage and spent flower stalks in early spring to encourage new growth
  • Clear debris from dense mats to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Alpine rock garden ground cover, trough planting, crevice garden accent