Contents
Description
Herniaria Incana, commonly known as Rupturewort, is a small, herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Europe and western Asia and has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-rheumatic properties. The plant has small, green leaves that form a dense mat and tiny, inconspicuous flowers that bloom in summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Herniaria |
Appearance
Herniaria Incana is a low-growing, mat-forming plant that reaches a height of only a few inches. Its small, green leaves are oval-shaped and grow in pairs along the stems. The plant produces tiny, greenish-white flowers that are barely visible and bloom in the summer months. The flowers are followed by small, brown capsules that contain the seeds. The plant’s dense mat of foliage makes it an excellent ground cover for rock gardens, walls, and pathways.
Care Guide
Water
Herniaria Incana prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant does not require regular fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
Herniaria Incana prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Herniaria Incana is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Herniaria Incana is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Herniaria Incana is native to Europe and western Asia and can be found growing in dry, rocky areas, as well as in meadows and pastures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Herniaria Incana be grown indoors?
A: No, Herniaria Incana is an outdoor plant that requires full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Herniaria Incana tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Herniaria Incana is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: How often should Herniaria Incana be fertilized?
A: Herniaria Incana does not require regular fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Q: Is Herniaria Incana deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Herniaria Incana is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Herniaria Glabra
- Herniaria Hirsuta
- Herniaria Lusitanica
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Herniaria incana. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288064
- RHS. (n.d.). Herniaria incana. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13392/Herniaria-incana/Details
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Herniaria incana L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HEIN2
