Erect spiderling (Boerhavia erecta)
Care, watering, light and tips for Erect spiderling on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Nyctaginaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Erect spiderling
Boerhavia erecta, known as Lesser Antilles 'Yerba Marga', is an annual or short-lived perennial herb with erect, branched stems that can reach up to 80 cm in height. Its small pinkish or whitish flowers are clustered in terminal inflorescences, adding a delicate touch to wild-looking gardens or roadsides. It is ideal for revegetating degraded areas or as part of a pollinator garden due to its attractiveness to insects.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical Americas
Care tips
This species prefers full sun exposure, although it tolerates some partial shade. It is very drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. It adapts to a wide range of soils, even poor ones, as long as they have good drainage. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Erect spiderling
- Warning signs
- Wilted and yellowing leaves, soft and blackened stems. It may drop leaves quickly.
- First aid
- Check watering; if soil is waterlogged, remove plant and let roots dry. If dry, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its biggest enemy, easily rotting its roots. Also extreme cold and frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. If roots are not completely rotted, it can recover with good drainage and controlled watering.