Rupturewort

Herniaria glabra

Family: Caryophyllaceae
Perennial green mat.  Native to southern Europe.  This is a very cushy ground-cover (kind of like Creeping Thyme) with dainty leaves and green flowers.  It drapes admirably over rocks and may be walked upon, a drought tolerant and evergreen mat.  When bruised, it emits a strong and pleasant coumarin-like smell, due to its herniarine content.  It is an active diuretic, relieving inflammation of the bladder and kidney. Cultivation:  Extra care.   Light dependent.  Start by pressing into surface of flat in greenhouse in early spring and transplant out when seedlings begin to lay over and spread.  Space plants 1 foot apart.  Grows only about 2 inches tall. 

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