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Key characteristics

Family: Caryophyllaceae
Height: 4 to 6 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches, forms a low, spreading mat
Flower color: White, cup-shaped flowers
Foliage color: Dark green, evergreen
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate to low
Maintenance: Low
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies

Groundcovers

Arenaria montana

Mountain Sandwort

Arenaria montana, commonly known as Mountain Sandwort, is a charming, low-growing perennial known for its dense mats of evergreen foliage and a profusion of pure white, star-shaped flowers. Blooming in late spring to early summer, the delicate white flowers form a striking contrast against the dark green, narrow leaves, creating a carpet of blooms that adds a fresh, clean look to rock gardens, borders, or alpine settings.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate to low

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Pollinator Gardens
Deer-Prone Areas
Borders
Rock Gardens

Companion plants

Aubrietas · Creeping phlox · Dianthus · Sedums · Candytufts · Helianthemums

Design tip

Tuck this compact perennial into narrow spaces between rocks or stepping stones where larger plants would overwhelm the area. Its neat, evergreen habit fills small gaps gracefully, creating a more finished and intentional garden design throughout the year.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)