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The common name of this evergreen creeping plant derives from its fast-growing, mat-forming habit: it can become a weed in gardens in mild areas or in terrariums indoors. The tiny round leaves, which
give it another of its names, baby’s tears, are carried alternately on slender, fragile stems.
They are silvery green in the variety ‘Argentea,’ while Aurea’ has pale yellow foliage. It was formerly known as Helxine soleirolii and is still sold under that name.
FACT FILE Of SOLEIROLIA SOLEIROLII Urticaceae
ORIGIN: Corsica; Sardinia.
HEIGHT: To 2in/5cm; prostrate.
POTTING MIX: Soil-based, with added leaf mould and grit for good drainage.
REPOTTING: Move in spring, into a wide shallow pot.
PROPAGATION: Divide plants into smaller clumps by pulling them apart carefully.
KEEPING PLANTS: Soleirolia makes an attractive ground cover under taller pot plants.
PLANT CARE: Bright filtered light; the direct sun will scorch the foliage.
• Normal to cool room temperature.
• Keep the soil moist at all times.
• Feed occasionally with dilute liquid fertiliser.
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