Baby tears
Soleirolia soleirolii · Urticaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant baby tears: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, extremely fine and delicate
- Blooming
- Discreet, small white flowers in summer
- Adult size
- 5 to 10 cm in height, unlimited trailing habit
- Growth
- Fast under optimal conditions
- Hardiness
- Not hardy, indoor plant (minimum 0 to 5 °C)
- Origin
- Balearic Islands (Spain)
- Soil type
- Humus-rich, light and well-draining potting mix
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate constantly moist without waterlogging. Water regularly, ideally with soft or filtered water, as helxine dislikes limestone. Mist the foliage frequently to maintain high ambient humidity, especially in heated interiors.
Light and Exposure
Place it in bright, indirect light, away from direct sunlight which would scorch its delicate foliage. It tolerates partial shade but thrives better with good lighting. Avoid warm drafts and temperature fluctuations.
Soil and Substrate
Use light potting mix enriched with peat or coconut fiber, with good drainage. Substrate that's too compact will suffocate the fine roots. Add coarse sand to improve aeration if needed.
Fertilizing
Apply diluted liquid fertilizer every 15 days during the growing season (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn and keep the plant unfertilized over winter. Choose balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich formulas to promote foliage growth.
Pruning and Cleaning
Pinch back the tips regularly to encourage a compact, bushy habit. Remove yellowed or bare sections. This plant doesn't need drastic pruning, but gentle pinching maintains its beauty.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for spider mites and mealybugs, which thrive in dry air. Stagnant moisture can cause fungal rot. Good ventilation and balanced watering prevent most issues. If infestation occurs, isolate the plant and treat with care.
Did you know?
Soleirol's helxine is named after French botanist Josep Soleirol, who discovered it in the Balearics in the 19th century. Also called 'baby tears' or 'good fortune plant,' it symbolizes delicacy in indoor gardening and was once highly prized by Victorians for filling terrariums and miniature fairy gardens.
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
- Chinese money plantPilea peperomioides
- Stinging nettleUrtica dioica
- Annual nettleUrtica urens
- Slender nettleUrtica gracilis
- RockweedPilea microphylla
- Wall pellitoryParietaria officinalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.