Cerastium Pumilum

Description

Cerastium Pumilum, also known as Dwarf Mouse-Ear Chickweed, is a low-growing perennial plant which belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Europe but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. This plant grows up to 10 cm in height and 30 cm in width, forming a dense mat of leaves and flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cerastium Pumilum has small, oval-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color. The leaves are covered with fine hairs and have a velvety texture. From spring to summer, this plant produces small, white flowers with five petals. The flowers have a diameter of about 1 cm and are held above the foliage on short stems. The overall effect is a dense mat of foliage and flowers that spreads easily.

Care Guide

Cerastium Pumilum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some guidelines:

• Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but does not like wet feet.
• Sunlight: Cerastium Pumilum prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cerastium Pumilum is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot in wet conditions. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater.

Habitat

Cerastium Pumilum can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, meadows, and open woodlands. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil conditions and is often used as a ground cover in gardens and landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Cerastium Pumilum a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Cerastium Pumilum is a great choice for rock gardens as it is low-growing and spreads easily.

Q: Does Cerastium Pumilum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the small white flowers of Cerastium Pumilum attract bees and other pollinators.

Q: Can Cerastium Pumilum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cerastium Pumilum can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate its spreading habit.

Q: How often should I fertilize Cerastium Pumilum?
A: Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

• Cerastium tomentosum
• Cerastium alpinum
• Cerastium arvense

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cerastium pumilum. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282825
• RHS. (n.d.). Cerastium pumilum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15461/Cerastium-pumilum/Details
• University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. (n.d.). Cerastium pumilum. Retrieved from https://arboretum.wisc.edu/treasures/cerastium-pumilum/