Species rupture-wort Guide
Rupture-wort (Herniaria hirsuta) showcasing its spreading stems with small, green leaves

rupture-wort

Herniaria hirsuta

Cycle:

Annual

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Layering Propagation,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 9

Flowers:

Yellowish-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Rupture-wort should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the season. In spring and summer, the soil should be kept moist but not necessarily wet. In fall and winter, cut down on the amount of water given to the plant; once every 2 or 3 weeks should be sufficient. It is important to make sure the soil is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Over-watering can lead to root rot. Water the soil slowly and thoroughly until moisture is seen at the bottom of the pot, taking care not to soak the foliage.

sunlight

Rupture-wort is an annual that prefers full sun for proper growth and blooming. Its native environment is in areas with light soil and good drainage. It will grow and flower best in an area that receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. This species does not require shade and can tolerate some direct exposure in hot environments. It can also cope in partial shade, but flowers and foliage will be sparser.

pruning

Rupture-wort is a low-growing perennial that can be planted and grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 3-7. It prefers full sun and dry to medium moisture soils, and should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts to appear. The best time to prune rupture-wort is late winter or early spring, but it can be lightly pruned or trimmed at any time during the growing season. When pruning, pinch off any dead or dying stems from the plant and encourage growth by removing the stems just above a pair of buds. Pruning should be done only once a year, and no more than 1-third of the plant's growth should be removed at a time. This species has a tendency to become woody and unsightly if it is not pruned regularly, so this is an important step for maintaining its attractive form and foliage.