Nakedstem Carpetweed: A Caribbean Native Finding Its Way North
Meet nakedstem carpetweed (Mollugo nudicaulis), a small but resilient plant that’s been quietly making itself at home in unexpected places. This diminutive ground-hugger might not win any beauty contests, but it has some interesting stories to tell about plant migration and adaptation.
What Exactly Is Nakedstem Carpetweed?
Nakedstem carpetweed is a low-growing forb – that’s garden-speak for a soft-stemmed plant that lacks woody tissue. Think of it as the botanical equivalent of a minimalist: it keeps things simple with small, narrow leaves and tiny white flowers that could easily be overlooked if you’re not paying attention.
This plant can behave as either an annual or short-lived perennial, depending on growing conditions. True to its nakedstem moniker, the plant produces slender, often leafless flowering stems that rise above its mat-like foliage.
Where Does It Come From?
Here’s where things get interesting from a botanical geography perspective. Nakedstem carpetweed is native to the Caribbean, specifically Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and tiny Navassa Island. However, it’s also established itself as a non-native resident in Maryland and potentially other areas along the Eastern seaboard.
This range expansion showcases how some plants can successfully colonize new territories, adapting to different climatic conditions while maintaining their essential characteristics.
Should You Grow Nakedstem Carpetweed?
This is where gardeners need to weigh their options carefully. While nakedstem carpetweed isn’t classified as invasive, it’s also not native to most areas where people might encounter it.
The Case for Growing It:
- Extremely low maintenance once established
- Tolerates poor, sandy soils where other plants struggle
- Provides ground cover in challenging spots
- Interesting for botanical collectors or native plant enthusiasts focusing on Caribbean species
- Suitable for xerophytic or drought-tolerant landscapes
Consider Native Alternatives Instead:
For most gardeners, especially those outside of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, choosing native ground covers will better support local ecosystems. Consider these alternatives based on your region:
- Wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) for cooler climates
- Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) for rocky areas
- Beach evening primrose (Oenothera drummondii) for coastal areas
- Regional native sedges for various conditions
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re in USDA zones 9-11 and decide to grow nakedstem carpetweed, you’ll find it refreshingly undemanding:
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy or rocky soils preferred
- Water: Drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
- Climate: Thrives in warm, subtropical to tropical conditions
Planting and Care Tips:
- Seeds can be direct-sown in spring after last frost
- Requires minimal fertilization – too much nutrition can actually reduce flowering
- Allow plants to self-seed if you want them to return next year
- Deadheading isn’t necessary unless you want to prevent self-seeding
- Very little pest or disease pressure
Wildlife and Pollinator Value
While nakedstem carpetweed won’t be the star of your pollinator garden, its small white flowers do attract tiny insects, including small bees and flies. The plant’s low profile also provides some ground-level habitat for small creatures, though this benefit is modest compared to native alternatives.
The Bottom Line
Nakedstem carpetweed is one of those plants that exemplifies the complex relationships between native status, garden value, and ecological impact. While it’s not harmful and can serve a purpose in very specific situations, most gardeners will find greater satisfaction and ecological benefit from choosing plants native to their immediate region.
If you’re gardening in Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands, this plant represents part of your natural heritage and can be a wonderful addition to native plant collections. For gardeners elsewhere, consider it a botanical curiosity rather than a garden staple, and lean toward native alternatives that will better serve your local wildlife and ecosystem.
