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Silverweed

Argentina anserina · Rosaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant silverweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Common name
Silverweed, Argentine, Goose-grass
Family
Rosaceae
Type
Creeping herbaceous perennial
Flowering
May to September, yellow flowers
Mature size
10–20 cm tall, runners up to 80 cm
Foliage
Deciduous, grayish-green, pinnate
Hardiness
Very hardy, -15 °C and below
Origin
Cosmopolitan, temperate and subarctic regions

Care

Watering

Silverweed tolerates moisture very well and thrives in damp or marshy soil. Water regularly, especially during prolonged dry periods. Once established, it requires minimal watering thanks to its runners, which allow it to draw moisture from the soil.

Light exposure

Plant it in full sun for optimal flowering, or in partial shade if the climate is very hot. It also tolerates partial shade, though vegetation coverage will be less dense.

Pruning and maintenance

No formal pruning is necessary. You can cut back the foliage in late winter or autumn to encourage vigorous growth in spring. Control its spread if it becomes too invasive by removing excess runners.

Soil and planting

Silverweed thrives in damp, loamy or even peaty soils. It also accepts poor and compacted soils. Plant in autumn or spring, spacing plants 30 to 50 cm apart to allow room for expansion.

Fertilizing

It is undemanding and does not require regular fertilizer. An occasional application of well-decomposed compost in spring can enrich the soil, but is not essential.

Diseases and pests

Very hardy and rarely affected by problems. In overly dry or poorly ventilated conditions, watch for leaf rot. No specific pests target it. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Did you know?

Its name 'silverweed' comes from the Latin 'anser' (goose), because wild geese once loved this plant, which was abundant in Europe's wet meadows. Traditionally, it was used in herbal medicine for its presumed astringent properties and was called 'goose-grass' in regions where it thrived near marshes.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.