How to care for Baby Tears
Soleirolia soleirolii · Urticaceae
A dense, mossy carpet of tiny round leaves that spills charmingly over pot edges. It grows fast in the moist, bright conditions it loves — and collapses dramatically the moment it dries out. Perfect for terrariums, humid kitchens, and attentive waterers. Water roughly every 3 days while it's growing (about every 6 in winter), give it a bright room away from the window, kept above 50°F (10°C) — it wants humid air.
Care at a glance
Keep the soil constantly moist by watering the soil (not the foliage) — a single full dry-out can kill the mat.
Bright, indirect light; hot direct sun crisps the delicate carpet within hours.
Quarter-strength balanced fertilizer monthly — it needs little food.
Mistakes that kill this plant
- Letting it dry out completely even once.
- Watering over the foliage until the crown rots.
- A sunny windowsill that cooks the carpet.
Seasonal tips
- Bottom-water or water around the edges to keep the dense foliage dry.
- Trim the mat with scissors any time to keep it tight and tidy.
- Watch it daily during summer heat — small pots can dry in 24 hours.
Is it safe for pets?
Our records list Baby Tears as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Full pet-safety details for cats & dogsCare for your Baby Tears on autopilot
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Toxicity here is informational, not a safety guarantee. Those are our own records, compiled by following the ASPCA's published toxic and non-toxic plant lists and Pet Poison Helpline's plant poison list rather than copied from them — confirm anything that matters against the ASPCA's published lists, which this one is matched to, or with your vet. If your pet ingested this plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.