Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings for established plants.
Also known as Blue Field-Madder · Blue Fieldmadder · Cultivated Field Madder
Blue Field Madder (Sherardia arvensis) is a low-growing, hairy annual herb with small, whorled leaves and clusters of tiny pinkish-purple flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, but tolerates some shade.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, sandy to loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures (18-24°C) and is hardy to cold.
Light
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings for established plants.
Pruning is usually not necessary. If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, light trimming in spring can help maintain a more compact shape.
Remove any dead or damaged stems as needed to improve air circulation and appearance.
Sherardia arvensis can be propagated by seed sown in early spring or autumn. It can also be propagated by division of established clumps in spring. Cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer.
Repotting is rarely needed as Sherardia arvensis is a small, herbaceous perennial. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in spring if root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Blue Field Madder (Sherardia arvensis)
Where Blue Field Madder (Sherardia arvensis) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Sherardia |
| Species | Sherardia arvensis |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data