Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Soleirolia soleirolii or Baby's tears

The genus Soleirolia, family Urticaceae, includes 3 species of herbaceous plants native to the Central Mediterranean. The species are: Soleirolia soleirolii, Soleirolia corsica and Soleirolia repens.

Common names: Baby's tears, Irish moss, Angel's tears, Paddy's wig. This species is native to Sardinia and Corsica.

They are small perennial plants with a trail bearing and translucent stems that reach 10 cm (3.93") in height but extend laterally. The most interesting thing is its compact foliage formed by small and shiny leaves that can be yellowish green, light green or with silver spots. The flowers are so inconspicuous that they are of no decorative interest.

Baby's tears is used in pots indoors or in shady areas of patios and terraces; It's ideal for walls in cool areas, in undergrowth and planted in pots with ferns.

Soleirolia soleirolii needs a semi-shade or shade exposure; it does not resist direct sun in Mediterranean climates. In winter the temperature should not be less than 5 ºC (41 ºF).

The soil can be a commercial indoor plant substrate with 15% coarse sand. The transplant is done in spring.

Water frequently, without flooding, putting the pot to soak on a plate and letting it absorb the water (better with water without lime).

Fertilize in spring and summer every 2 weeks with mineral fertilizer.

Prune lightly to keep their appearance rounded and to control their expansion as they tend to be invasive.

Soleirolia soleirolii is quite resistant to the usual pests and diseases.

Irish moss is easily propagated by division or cuttings in spring.

Images of the plant Soleirolia soleirolii or Baby's tears