Baby's Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)

Baby's Tears

Soleirolia soleirolii

Delicate trailing foliage creates a soft green carpet, like scattered teardrops. Creeping perennial groundcover; common name: Baby's Tears.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch delicate foliage
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the substrate to dry out completely
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Temperature Thrives in cool to temperate temperatures; protect from frost and extreme heat above 26°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Tiny, round, bright green leaves (2–3 mm wide) growing densely on thin stems
  • Stem: Slender, creeping, trailing stems that root at nodes for rapid spread
  • Flower: Inconspicuous white or pale green flowers, rarely visible in cultivated settings
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; mist regularly to maintain high humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 4 weeks. Use half-strength liquid fertilizer to avoid burning delicate roots

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent foliage burn
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown stems to maintain compact, tidy growth
  • Remove yellowed or damaged foliage to improve airflow and prevent fungal growth
  • Pinch trailing stem tips to encourage bushier, denser foliage growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes gentleness and delicate, quiet beauty in ornamental horticulture

Usage: Ornamental groundcover for terrariums, hanging baskets, or shaded garden borders