Four-leaved Allseed (Polycarpon tetraphyllum)

Four-leaved Allseed

Polycarpon tetraphyllum

Delicate mat-forming groundcover with tiny starry blooms. Low-growing annual or short-lived perennial; common name: four-leaved allseed.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, exposed growing conditions
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in warm, dry daytime temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, fleshy, obovate to spatulate leaves arranged in whorls of 4
  • Flower: Tiny white star-shaped blooms clustered in axillary cymes
  • Stem: Slender, prostrate to ascending stems forming dense, low mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth period

Fertilization

Optional diluted balanced feed once monthly. No regular fertilization required; feeding is only needed for plants in extremely poor soil

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; dust lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without risk of root burn
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower clusters to encourage prolonged blooming
  • Thin overcrowded mats to improve airflow and prevent fungal growth
  • Remove dead foliage in late autumn to maintain a neat appearance
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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, green roofs, and container edges; erosion control in dry, sloped areas