Also known as Slender Buttonweed
Spermacoce ocymifolia is a low-growing herbaceous perennial with attractive foliage and small white flowers, often used as a groundcover or in borders.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers several hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and sudden temperature drops.
Light
25% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Spermacoce ocymifolia thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, but also prevent the soil from becoming completely parched.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months or if the plant is in a lower-light environment.
Prune Spermacoce ocymifolia to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of new stems regularly, especially when young. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy shoots at any time of year.
Light pruning can be done after flowering to tidy the plant.
Spermacoce ocymifolia can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take 7-10 cm cuttings from healthy stems in spring or early summer. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep moist and warm until roots form.
Repot Spermacoce ocymifolia every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss and perlite.
Repot in spring before the start of the active growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Spermacoce Ocymifolia (Spermacoce ocymifolia)
Where Spermacoce Ocymifolia (Spermacoce ocymifolia) 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 | Spermacoce |
| Species | Spermacoce ocymifolia |
Similar in genus Spermacoce
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
