Family: Illecebraceae

This genus of 50 small, annual and evergreen, perennial creepers is widely distributed throughout the world. Only a few are cultivated, mainly as groundcovers. Two of the species, P. argentea and P. capitata, are used medicinally in some parts of the world.

Species

P. argentea, a perennial from southern Europe, is a mat-forming plant, to 30 cm (12 in) wide, with heads of tiny flowers, surrounded by silvery bracts, in summer. It was formerly used in folk medicine.

P. argyrocoma, a perennial from North America, grows to 30 cm (12 in). Silvery hairs cover the entire plant and time flowers appear in dense clusters.

P. capitata, a compact perennial from the Mediterranean forms a grayish green mat. Tiny, green, spring flowers are contained in the silvery bracts.

P. sessiliflora, a perennial from North America, has mat-like growth and yellowish green foliage.

P. virginica, also a perennial from North America, grows to 45 cm (18 in) high. It has branched sprays of tiny flowers in short, silver bracts.

Cultivation

Plant in any type of soil, provided it is well drained. Paronychia can be grown in semi-shade or in warm, dry rockeries. Propagate from seed sown in early spring, or by division of the plants in spring.

Climate

Zone 6 or 7.