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Pearlwort Sagina procumbens

Other plants called Pearlwort:

Phonetic Spelling
sa-GEE-nuh pro-KUM-benz
Description

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. Sagina procumbens is nearly identical  to Sagina decumbens.  Both have thin, awn-like leaves, 1/2 to 1 inch in length and can form dense mats. Flowers are white.

This plant is generally seen near walkways.

There are selections and related species sold in the garden trade for rock gardens or vegetation between pavers. Pearlwort prefers cool, moist conditions.

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:
Tags:
#weed
 
Cultivars / Varieties:
Tags:
#weed
  • Attributes:
    Genus:
    Sagina
    Species:
    procumbens
    Family:
    Caryophyllaceae
    Uses (Ethnobotany):
    For rock gardens or vegetation between pavers
    Life Cycle:
    Annual
    Perennial
    Recommended Propagation Strategy:
    Seed
  • Whole Plant Traits:
    Plant Type:
    Weed
    Habit/Form:
    Dense
    Spreading
    Texture:
    Fine
  • Cultural Conditions:
    Soil Drainage:
    Good Drainage
    Moist
  • Flowers:
    Flower Color:
    White
    Flower Bloom Time:
    Fall
    Spring
    Flower Shape:
    Wheel
    Flower Petals:
    4-5 petals/rays
  • 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.
  • Stem:
    Stem Is Aromatic:
    No
  • Landscape:
    Problems:
    Weedy