Also known as Iceland Koenigia · Iceland Purslane · Island Koenigia
Iceland-purslane (Koenigia islandica) is a tiny, creeping annual herb found in arctic and alpine regions, forming dense mats with small white flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers cool, bright conditions; protect from harsh direct sun.
Keep consistently moist
75% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Cool temperatures
75% intensity
Thrives in cool environments; avoid extreme heat. Ideal range is 10-18°C.
Low feed
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly only once in spring with a diluted 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 |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during the growing season.
Reduce watering significantly during dormancy periods to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid fungal issues.
Pruning is generally not required for Koenigia islandica. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain tidiness.
Its compact growth habit means it doesn't typically become leggy or overgrown, so extensive shaping is usually unnecessary.
Propagation is best achieved through seed. Sow seeds in early spring on the surface of a well-draining seed-starting mix. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Germination can be slow and erratic, so patience is key.
Division is also possible but less common.
Repot Koenigia islandica only when absolutely necessary, typically every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a shallow pot with excellent drainage. Repot in spring before active growth begins.
Handle the delicate root system with care to minimize disturbance.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Iceland-Purslane (Koenigia islandica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Koenigia |
| Species | Koenigia islandica |
Similar in genus Koenigia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
