groundcover

Rupturewort

Herniaria glabra

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

2 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Asia, North Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Herniaria glabra, commonly known as smooth rupturewort, is a low-growing perennial herb with dense, mat-forming habit, small oval leaves, and tiny greenish-white flowers that cluster along stems. This species is notable for its excellent ground cover qualities, tolerance to drought and poor soils, and its use as a durable, low-maintenance landscaping plant in rocky or sandy areas.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a dense, evergreen groundcover with a silvery-green hue, ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Erosion control on slopes due to its spreading habit.

Supports beneficial insects and improves soil stability.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water lightly to keep soil moist during germination.
Place in full sun for best growth.
Allow plants to establish for 6 weeks before watering less.
Mulch lightly to conserve moisture.
Divide every 2-3 years to prevent overcrowding.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 💧
Prune lightly to maintain shape ✂️
Mulch to retain soil moisture 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Overwater, causing root rot ❌
Allow soil to stay waterlogged ❌
Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Neglect pruning, leading to legginess ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcoverRock garden border

Companion Plants

Sedum Thyme Lavender Santolina

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Rupturewort questions

What zones can Rupturewort grow in?

Rupturewort is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Rupturewort deer resistant?

Yes — Rupturewort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Rupturewort bloom?

Rupturewort typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Rupturewort need full sun?

Rupturewort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Rupturewort drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rupturewort handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.