Family:
Urticaceae
Origin:
Ireland
Light:
Mottled sunshade in SMA, no burning SMA sun
Temperature:
61 – 70F day, 56 – 65F night
Pests & Problems:
Root-rot & fertilizer burn
Care:
Good drainage, moist soil, never dry out




This moss-like, evergreen, creeping ground cover can grow to about 6 inches high, but usually
maintains itself at 1 to 2 inches. It is a perennial, does well in light acid soil, and has dense
matting ¼ inch leaves. Protect Baby Tears from burning in SMA sun: the plant prefers a temperate
climate but will do well here in mottled shade. The plant requires consistently welldrained,
moist soil. When propagating, place 2X2 inch plugs 9 to 12 inches apart; or use seeds
and follow seeding directions. There is a white, insignificant bloom in the early spring. This is
an ideal plant to put at the base of trees, in potted plants to cover soil, in place of grass (not for
walking on), hanging baskets, in terrariums, and between stepping-stones. Baby Tears is an invasive
plant, will choke out grass and there is no known treatment to get rid of it.