Red Sand Spurrey (Spergularia rubra)

Red Sand Spurrey

Spergularia rubra

Delicate pink blooms carpet sandy soils, a quiet groundcover beauty. Low-growing herbaceous annual; common name: Red Sand Spurrey.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial coastal shade; tolerates salt spray and windy coastal conditions
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Watering Water deeply when top 2 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; thrives in cool temperate and coastal summer temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, fleshy leaves arranged in whorls along slender stems
  • Flower: Small five-petaled pink to reddish blooms in loose terminal clusters
  • Stem: Prostrate to ascending branching stems forming dense mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly to establish root system; reduce frequency once plants are established

Fertilization

Optional diluted balanced feed once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent leggy growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium without over-fertilizing
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering through the growing season
  • Trim back overgrown stems to maintain a compact mat form
  • Remove dead foliage in late autumn to reduce mold and pest buildup
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans per ASPCA and horticultural sources

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for coastal stabilization, rock gardens, and wildflower meadow mixes