Arenaria

Irish moss forms a dense, compact, moss-like mat of fine, evergreen leaves. Small, white, star-shaped flowers with yellow centers blanket the plant in the spring and re-bloom through the summer. Can tolerate difficult conditions, including barren limestone soil. Also tolerant of heavy metal contamina- tion; in the British Isles it enthusiastically colonizes lead mine spoil. Able to withstand some foot traffic, it is a good choice for planting between stepping-stones or as a ground cover for small areas. Iris moss grows best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Full sun is okay as long as the moisture supply is steady, although a bit of shade during the hottest part of the day is desirable. In climates subject to severe cold it is best to situate Irish moss where it is not too exposed to the elements in winter. Like true mosses, Irish moss is not likely to appreciate being covered by fallen tree leaves.