Species Serpentine Stitchwort
white flowers with lime center, green leaves and brown stems

Serpentine Stitchwort

Cherleria marcescens

Serpentine Stitchwort (Cherleria marcescens) is a small perennial flower native to Europe. Growing up to 20 centimeters tall, it is known for its pretty white blossoms and long, thin leaves. It prefers moist, shady environments and grows best in woodland areas and along riverbanks and streams. It can also be found on exposed grassy hillsides in mountain and coastal locations. Serpentine Stitchwort is a hardy species and is capable of surviving cold weather and summer droughts. It has become an important food source for bees and butterflies, providing nectar for pollinators.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

When it comes to watering Serpentine Stitchwort, regular and moderate moisture is ideal. For best results, water the plant to keep the top 1-2 inches of soil moist throughout the growing season. During dry periods, the soil should be checked to ensure it does not dry out- additional water may be required, providing 1-2 inches of water per week. When the plant enters dormancy in the winter, reduce the amount of watering as the soil should remain slightly moist to slightly dry.

sunlight

The Serpentine Stitchwort (Cherleria marcescens) is a plant species that thrives best in full sun. During the summer months, the plant should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sun per day. This plant will also do well with a few hours of direct sunlight during the morning or afternoon hours. During the winter months, the plant should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of natural sunlight every day. When it comes to artificial lighting, the Serpentine Stitchwort will do best if it is provided with additional light for 12-14 hours per day.

pruning

Serpentine stitchwort (Cherleria marcescens) should be pruned in early spring, before flowering. Pruning should be done to keep the plant neat and to promote better flowering. Begin by removing any dead, damaged or diseased stems. Cut back the remaining stems by 1-third to 1-half their height. This will help to promote a bushier growth and more flowers the following year. Keep an eye out for new growth and deadheading spent blooms periodically. As the plant grows, prune any shoots that start to overtake the others. It is also a good idea to thin out any overcrowded areas, to keep the plant growing evenly.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Serpentine Stitchwort typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Cherleria marcescens typically begins in June and ends in August.