Sagina decumbens
Common Name(s):
- Phonetic Spelling
- sa-GEE-nuh de-KUM-benz
- Description
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Pearlwort is in the Caryophyllaceae family. It is a spreading, moss-like cool-season annual, but under some conditions, it may persist as a short-lived perennial. There are two species that are nearly identical (Sagina procumbens being the other species) and have thin, awl-like leaves, 1/2 to 1 inch in length and can form dense mats. The flowers are white.
There are selections and related species sold in the garden trade for rock gardens or vegetation between pavers. Pearlwort prefers cool, moist conditions. This plant may be seen near walkways.
A prolific seed producer, seeds are borne in cup-like pods and spread by splashing water. Pearlwort can be quite weedy and if plants are undesired, do not let them go to seed. Management strategies include improving drainage in areas where weed persists. Pearlwort is well managed by preemergence herbicides labeled for this use.
- See this plant in the following landscape:
- Cultivars / Varieties:
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- Tags:
- Cultivars / Varieties:
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Attributes:
- Genus:
- Sagina
- Species:
- decumbens
- Family:
- Caryophyllaceae
- Uses (Ethnobotany):
- For rock gardens or vegetation between pavers
- Life Cycle:
- Annual
- Perennial
- Recommended Propagation Strategy:
- Seed
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Whole Plant Traits:
- Plant Type:
- Weed
- Habit/Form:
- Dense
- Spreading
- Texture:
- Fine
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Cultural Conditions:
- Soil Drainage:
- Good Drainage
- Moist
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Flowers:
- Flower Color:
- White
- Flower Bloom Time:
- Fall
- Spring
- Flower Shape:
- Wheel
- Flower Petals:
- 4-5 petals/rays
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Leaves:
- Leaf Color:
- Green
- Leaf Type:
- Needles
- Hairs Present:
- Yes
- Leaf Length:
- < 1 inch
- Leaf Description:
- Thin, awn-like leaves, 1/2 to 1 inch in length and can form dense mats
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Stem:
- Stem Is Aromatic:
- No
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Landscape:
- Problems:
- Weedy
