Arenaria balearica, commonly known as Mossy Sandwort, is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically the Balearic Islands, Corsica, Sardinia, and mainland Italy. It is often found in rocky, limestone areas, and cliff sides, as well as in moist, shaded woodlands. This plant forms dense, low-growing mats of small, bright green leaves, which give it a moss-like appearance. The white, star-like flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are quite showy, adding to its ornamental value. Typically, it reaches a height of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) and spreads to cover a significant area, making it an effective ground cover.

Mossy Sandwort is valued for its ability to thrive in part shade to full shade, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, shaded woodland gardens, and as an underplanting for larger shrubs or trees. It prefers well-drained, moist soils rich in organic matter, but once established, it can tolerate periods of drought. Its dense growth habit helps to suppress weeds, reducing garden maintenance. In cultivation, it is important to ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases, which can occur in overly moist conditions. While it is not known for aggressive roots or other significant problems, it may require division every few years to rejuvenate its growth.CC BY-SA 4.0