Species Tundra Sandwort
white flowers with burgundy-purple sepals, white-gray stems and green leaves

Tundra Sandwort

Arenaria pseudofrigida

Tundra Sandwort (Arenaria pseudofrigida) is a perennial plant native to arctic tundra regions of northern Scandinavia and the high mountains of many parts of Europe. It is a low-growing species with finely-divided leaves and many small, white, five-petalled flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. It can tolerate temperatures down to -30°C and prefers dry gravel soils with a permeable sandy or stony base. Tundra Sandwort is drought-tolerant and is known to spread rapidly in areas left unploughed for a number of years.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Tundra Sandwort should be watered moderately and consistently during the summer months. Water the plant enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy. The ideal soil moisture should be like a wrung-out sponge. During winter, it is best to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Watering should be done about once every 10-14 days. During periods of extreme heat, it may need water every 5-7 days. Make sure not to over-water the area; too much water can stunt the growth and even lead to root-rot.

sunlight

Tundra Sandwort (Arenaria pseudofrigida) is a species of flowering plant that typically grows in tundra ecosystems. This plant requires full sun to grow properly and thrive, but it can tolerate partial shade. Tundra Sandwort is adapted to the limited amounts of sunlight these tundra areas receive, so it does not need as much sunlight as some other plants. The ideal amount of sunshine for this plant species is 8-10 hours per day and it should be exposed to direct sunlight for the majority of that time. The ideal time of day for Tundra Sandwort is during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon when the sun is at its highest point, allowing the plant to receive more direct sunlight. While this species can tolerate partial shade, it should be exposed to full sunlight for at least 4-6 hours of the day to ensure a healthy growth.

pruning

Tundra Sandwort should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be minimal and only necessary to remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done after flowering to keep the bloom size in check and prevent the plant from becoming overgrown. When pruning, cut just above the node and use sharp, clean tools. Make sure not to prune too much at once or the plant will be weakened by the sudden loss of foliage. If desired, light trimming can be done throughout the growing season.