Cerastium elongatum
Cerastium elongatum · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cerastium elongatum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae (carnations and dianthus)
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Blooming
- Spring to summer (April-July)
- Adult size
- 20-40 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, narrow and elongated
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates cold
- Origin
- Temperate regions of Europe and the Mediterranean basin
- Growth
- Fast
Care
Sunlight
Cerastium elongatum prefers a sunny location, ideally in full sun or partial shade. This exposure promotes generous blooming and a compact habit. Avoid dense shade which would weaken the plant.
Soil
Plant this species in well-drained soil that is rather light and poor. It tolerates chalky, gravelly, or sandy soils. Overly rich soil would promote excessive growth at the expense of flowering.
Watering
Water moderately, particularly during establishment and in dry periods. Cerastium elongatum tolerates drought well once established. Avoid excess moisture which could cause root rot.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage dense branching. Remove spent flowers to extend the blooming period. Occasional cleanup is sufficient to remove dead stems.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer is strictly necessary. Poor soil suits this hardy plant perfectly. A light application in spring can boost growth if the soil is very depleted.
Diseases and pests
Cerastium elongatum is little susceptible to diseases. In case of excessive moisture, damping off or root rot may occur. Occasionally check for spider mites in dry, warm conditions.
Did you know?
The name 'Cerastium' derives from ancient Greek meaning 'horn,' referring to the elongated and pointed shape of its seed capsules. This champion of hardiness was long used in alpine and rock gardening, where it naturally colonizes poor and well-drained areas.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.