Sherardia arvensis
Sherardia arvensis · Rubiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant sherardia arvensis: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to September
- Flower color
- Rose-lilac to pale violet
- Adult size
- 15 to 40 cm tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15 °C)
- Origin
- Europe, Western Asia and North Africa
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky, poor to moderate
Care
Light exposure
Field madder thrives in full sun or partial shade. It appreciates well-lit areas for generous and regular flowering. A sunny exposure promotes its compactness and harmonious development.
Watering
Water moderately and regularly during spring and summer growth, particularly during prolonged dry spells. The soil should dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when the plant enters dormancy.
Soil
This small herb tolerates poor, chalky and well-drained soils. It adapts to dry and stony terrain where other plants struggle. A moderate addition of potting soil can improve establishment, but amendment is not essential.
Fertilizer
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is more than enough for this undemanding plant. Avoid excess nitrogen which could favor foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and cutting
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and remove faded flowers. Cutting back to ground level at the end of autumn allows the plant to regrow vigorously the following spring.
Diseases and pests
Very robust, field madder is rarely affected by common diseases. In case of prolonged waterlogged conditions, watch for root rot. Ensure good air circulation around the base and optimal soil drainage.
Did you know?
Field madder owes its scientific name to British botanist William Sherard (1659-1728), founder of the Oxford Botanic Garden. This small annual or biennial plant has featured in the herbals of Mediterranean and Eastern peasant cultures for centuries, where it self-seeds generously in fields and fallow land.
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.