Soleirolia soleirolii
We carry this. Available at our St. Augustine nursery; call (904) 471-0440 to confirm current stock.
Baby Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii) is a delicate creeping perennial from the western Mediterranean islands, forming a dense, mossy carpet of tiny round leaves on threadlike stems. It thrives in moist, shaded spots and is popular as a groundcover between stepping stones, in terrariums, and as a houseplant. Starting at $12.95.
Good planting window.
Higher water demand in summer heat.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Baby Tears performs best in part to full shade; direct afternoon sun — especially intense Florida summer sun — will scorch the delicate foliage. Bright indirect light or dappled shade under trees is ideal in NE Florida.
Keep soil consistently moist; Baby Tears cannot tolerate drought and will rapidly collapse in dry conditions. Water regularly and mulch to retain moisture, but ensure soil drains freely to prevent root rot.
Plant in rich, moist, well-draining soil amended with compost or peat; ideal pH 5.0–6.0. Feed lightly once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer — avoid heavy fertilization.
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, high water, loam, salt tolerance, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, high water, loam, salt tolerance, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, high water, loam, salt tolerance, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, loam, salt tolerance, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: shade, high water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: high water, loam, salt tolerance, and zone 9a hardiness.
GroundcoverRubus hayata-koidzumii
GroundcoverClinopodium brownei
GroundcoverLicania michauxii
Baby Tears is a groundcover for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with low salt tolerance, reaching 2-4 inches tall, spreading indefinitely × 3-6 feet (spreading indefinitely).
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.
