Velvet Sandwort (Petrorhagia velutina)

Velvet Sandwort

Petrorhagia velutina

Soft velvety foliage and delicate pink blooms bring gentle charm to rock gardens. Low-growing perennial groundcover; common name: Velvet Sandwort.

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, direct sunlight with optional afternoon shade in hot, arid climates
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; drought-tolerant once established to avoid root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; withstands moderate summer heat but benefits from cool nighttime temperatures to prevent foliage scorch
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear to lanceolate leaves with dense velvety hairs, gray-green in color
  • Flower: Small, five-petaled pink blooms in loose terminal clusters
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes to form dense, spreading mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water moderately to keep soil slightly moist during active growth

Fertilization

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

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; mix into the top 2cm of soil to boost drainage and calcium content without risking nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower stems after blooming to encourage potential reblooming and maintain compact form
  • Remove dead or yellowing foliage in early spring to promote fresh new growth
  • Thin overcrowded mats to improve airflow and reduce risk of fungal disease
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, edging for pathways, alpine container plantings