Groundcover
Baby Tears
Soleirolia soleirolii
Traits
Varieties We Carry
StandardSoleirolia soleirolii
Sizes & Pricing
8 inFrom$12.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightPart Shade, Full Shade
WaterHigh
Mature size2-4 inches tall, spreading indefinitely × 3-6 feet (spreading indefinitely)
About Baby Tears
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.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-flowering
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Moist, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Higher water demand in summer heat.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
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.
Water
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.
Soil & Fertilizer
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.
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Common questions
Is Baby Tears a good plant for St. Augustine?
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).
Care information verified from
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.