Irish Moss, Pearlwort
Sagina subulata 'Pearlwort'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
2 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Western and Central Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Sagina subulata, commonly known as Pearlwort, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial forming dense mats of fine, grass-like foliage with tiny white flowers that appear in spring and summer. This cultivar is prized for its delicate, pearl-like white flowers and its excellent ground-covering ability, making it ideal for rock gardens and edging.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination, about 2 weeks
- Place in full sun for best flowering and growth
- Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain vigor
Pro Tip
Ensure soil is well-draining to prevent root rot
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t let soil stay waterlogged
- Never fertilize heavily—too much can cause legginess
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Irish Moss, Pearlwort questions
What zones can Irish Moss, Pearlwort grow in?
Irish Moss, Pearlwort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Irish Moss, Pearlwort deer resistant?
Yes — Irish Moss, Pearlwort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Irish Moss, Pearlwort bloom?
Irish Moss, Pearlwort typically blooms in late spring to summer through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Irish Moss, Pearlwort need full sun?
Irish Moss, Pearlwort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Grow Irish Moss, Pearlwort with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
