Claytonia virginica aka Virginia Springbeauty

Taxonomy

Claytonia virginica, also known as the Virginia springbeauty, eastern spring beauty, grass-flower or fairy spud, is an herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Montiaceae. It is native to eastern North America and is found in moist woodland areas. The plant overwinters through a tuberous root and grows up to 40 cm tall. Its flowers, which have five pale pink or white petals (rarely yellow), are 0.7-1.4 cm in diameter and may have dark pink stripes. Spring-beauty is a low-growing plant that spreads by underground tubers and seeds, making it a great groundcover. Its scientific name honors John Clayton, a Colonial Virginian botanist who lived from 1694 to 1773.

Common names

Virginia Springbeauty, Spring Beauty, Eastern Spring Beauty, Grass Flower, Fairy Spud

How to care for Virginia Springbeauty

Difficulty

Virginia Springbeauty requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Virginia Springbeauty should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Virginia Springbeauty loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Virginia Springbeauty prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Virginia Springbeauty to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Virginia Springbeauty should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

The Virginia Springbeauty is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

Region of origin

Virginia Springbeauty’s native range is Eastern N. America - Quebec to Texas. A garden escape, locally naturalized in Britain[17].


More info:
Wikipedia