Description
Spergularia bracteata (also called Bracted sandspurry, among many other common names) is an herbaceous annual plant native to Europe. It has a basal rosette of leaves and a tall, branched stem. It grows in grasslands, shrublands, and forests at elevations of 2,000 to 4,000 meters.
Uses & Benefits
Spergularia bracteata is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and digestive issues. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Spergularia bracteata is a white to pink color, with a star-shaped corolla. The seeds are small, black, and have a glossy surface. The seedlings are small, with a single stem and a few leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Spergularia bracteata is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub that can reach up to 6 feet in height. It prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or early summer in a cold frame. Cuttings should be taken in late summer or early autumn and rooted in a cold frame.