Green carpetweed
Mollugo verticillata · Molluginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant green carpetweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, semi-persistent depending on climate
- Flowering
- Summer to fall (small discrete white flowers)
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm height × 30 to 50 cm spread
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness (frost-sensitive, annual in temperate regions)
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical regions of Asia
- Soil type
- Well-draining soil, tolerant of poor and sandy conditions
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil lightly moist, without creating waterlogging. Reduce watering in fall and during dormancy. Once established, molluga tolerates occasional dry periods well.
Light Exposure
Place your plant in full sun or partial shade. It develops best with 6 hours of direct daily light. In very hot regions, some afternoon shade can limit water stress.
Soil and Substrate
Use light, well-draining potting mix enriched with sand or perlite to promote aeration. Molluga tolerates poor and rocky soils. Absolutely avoid water accumulation, which causes root rot.
Pruning and Shaping
Light pruning in spring promotes compact, dense branching. Remove dead or diseased stems continuously. You can pinch young shoots to encourage a bushy growth habit.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer every 15 days during the active growing period (spring-summer). Reduce in fall and stop in winter. Avoid excess nitrogen, which favors foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pests and Diseases
Molluga is generally robust. Watch for spider mites in dry climates and powdery mildew in excessive humidity. Good air circulation and watering at the base reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Did you know?
Molluga is a cosmopolitan pioneer herb that rapidly colonizes disturbed land and wastelands. Its name comes from the Latin "mollis" (soft), referring to its delicate herbaceous tissues. Often considered a weed in tropical crops, it is nonetheless valued locally in certain traditional Asian cuisines for its tender young shoots.
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.