Corn Spurrey (Spergula arvensis)

Corn Spurrey

Spergula arvensis

Tiny star-shaped flowers carpet disturbed soil, a quiet wild beauty. Annual herbaceous wildflower; common name: Corn Spurrey.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, nutrient-poor disturbed soils
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Watering Water deeply only during extended dry spells; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in cool to temperate summer temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow linear whorled leaves (6–10 per node), bright green, fleshy texture
  • Flower: Small white star-shaped blooms with 5 petals, clustered at stem tips
  • Stem: Slender, branching smooth green stems with fine hairs at leaf nodes
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Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally during dry spells; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

No regular fertilization needed; avoid high-nitrogen feeds. Excess fertilizer may reduce flowering and encourage leggy growth

Banana peel compost tea:Use fully composted banana peels; dilute 1:40 for occasional root drench to support flowering without overfeeding
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering period
  • Trim back entire plant after flowering to promote self-sowing for next season
  • Remove yellowing foliage to maintain tidy growth and reduce pest habitat
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Wildflower pollinator support; occasional low-growing garden ground cover