Lysimachia tenella
Lysimachia tenella · Primulaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lysimachia tenella: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Delicate Chickweed
- Family
- Primulaceae
- Form
- Creeping herbaceous
- Flowering
- Summer (June to August)
- Flowers
- Small white or pale pink flowers
- Foliage
- Deciduous, very fine and delicate
- Adult size
- 5-15 cm tall, spreading habit
- Hardiness
- Moderate (freezes in continental climate)
- Origin
- Humid zones of Southeast Asia
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate constantly moist without waterlogging. Delicate chickweed prefers cool, slightly humid environments. Water regularly during the growing period and reduce slightly in winter. This plant appreciates regular misting which promotes its development.
Light
Place it in indirect light, partial to light shade. It dreads direct sun which quickly dries its fine foliage. An exposure near a window without direct rays is ideal for maintaining a compact, attractive shape.
Soil
Use a light, organic-rich and well-draining substrate. A mix of leaf mould and perlite works well. Delicate chickweed thrives in slightly acidic to neutral, humus-rich soils.
Fertilizer
Apply a diluted, balanced fertilizer every 15 days during the growing period (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn and stop in winter. Prefer a low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid overly vigorous growth that would alter the delicate form.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch back the tips regularly to promote branching and maintain a compact shape. Remove damaged or leggy stems. Light pruning in spring rejuvenates the plant and stimulates new growth.
Diseases and pests
Watch for red spider mites in dry air. Root rot can occur if water stagnates excessively. Ventilate regularly and maintain good hygiene. If problems arise, isolate the plant and act quickly.
Did you know?
The genus Lysimachia derives its name from ancient Greek and literally means 'end of battle', as these plants were once believed to be used to settle disputes. Delicate chickweed, with its tiny form and fine leaves, is particularly appreciated in indoor gardening and terrarium cultivation, where its delicate stems create fascinating aerial cascades.
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
- Dotted loosestrifeLysimachia punctata
- African BoxwoodMyrsine africana
- Eastern sowbreadCyclamen coum
- SowbreadCyclamen hederifolium
- Yellow loosestrifeLysimachia vulgaris
- CowslipPrimula veris
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.