Arenaria Montana

• Plant Type: Perennial
• Common Name: Mountain Sandwort
• Botanical Name: Arenaria montana
• Growth Habit: Low-growing, mat-forming
• Height: 10-15 cm (4-6 inches)
• Spread: 30-45 cm (12-18 inches)
• Foliage: Narrow, dark green leaves
• Flower Color: White
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer
• Hardiness: Fully Hardy
• Aspect: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
• Uses: Ground cover, rock gardens, alpine gardens, edging, containers

Description:

Arenaria montana is a hardy perennial plant known for its dense, spreading growth habit and masses of small, star-shaped white flowers. It forms a low carpet of foliage that is covered with flowers in late spring to early summer, creating a charming display in the garden. The dark green foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, providing interest even when the plant is not in bloom.

Key Features:

• Mat-forming Growth Habit: Mountain Sandwort has a prostrate, spreading growth habit, forming a dense mat of foliage that hugs the ground. This makes it an excellent choice for ground cover in sunny to partially shaded areas, where it can fill in gaps and suppress weeds.
• Abundant White Flowers: The plant produces numerous small, white flowers with five petals arranged in a star-like pattern. The flowers appear in late spring to early summer and cover the foliage, creating a carpet of white blooms that contrast beautifully with the dark green leaves.
• Low Maintenance: Arenaria montana is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance once established. It prefers well-draining soil and thrives in sunny to partially shaded locations. Regular watering is necessary, especially during hot, dry weather, to keep the soil evenly moist.
• Versatile Uses: Mountain Sandwort is versatile and can be used in various garden settings. It works well as a ground cover in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and perennial borders. It also makes an attractive edging plant along pathways or garden beds and can be grown in containers or hanging baskets.
• Wildlife Attraction: The white flowers of Arenaria montana attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for supporting local wildlife. By providing a nectar source, it helps promote biodiversity in the garden and contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem.