Arenaria montana (Mountain Sandwort)

Plant Profile

Arenaria montana, Mountain Sandwort, is a low, mat-forming evergreen perennial with small, narrow, dark green leaves. In late spring, it is smothered in a profusion of relatively large, white, five-petaled flowers. Forms a dense, cushion-like groundcover.

Key Characteristics

• Family: Caryophyllaceae (kar-ree-oh-fil-AY-see-ee)
• Genus: Arenaria (ar-en-AR-ee-uh)
• Species: montana (MON-tah-nuh)

Growing Conditions

Full sun to part shade, well-drained, gritty soil. Hardy in USDA zones 4–8. Dislikes heat and humidity.

Landscape Uses

Rock gardens, alpine troughs, walls, edging, between pavers.

Maintenance

Shear lightly after flowering. Divide in spring or fall. Good drainage essential.