The Angel Tears Plant, often known as Baby’s Tears, is a popular houseplant celebrated for its delicate, dense foliage. This species creates a lush, moss-like mat of growth, giving it a soft, carpeted appearance that spills attractively over the edges of containers. It is a fast-growing, low-profile plant often used to add visual density to indoor spaces.
Identification and Origin
The species is scientifically identified as Soleirolia soleirolii, a member of the nettle family (Urticaceae), though it does not possess the stinging hairs of its relatives. This herbaceous perennial is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically the islands of Corsica and Sardinia, where it thrives in moist, shaded environments. Its physical characteristics are defined by its creeping, mat-forming habit and thread-like stems that root easily wherever they touch the soil surface. The foliage consists of numerous minuscule, rounded leaves, typically less than a quarter-inch in diameter.
Ideal Growing Environment
Providing the correct environment is the single most important factor for maintaining the Angel Tears Plant’s healthy, dense growth. The plant requires bright light that is consistently indirect, as the delicate foliage will quickly scorch and turn brown if exposed to harsh, direct sunlight. Placing the plant near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south or west window typically provides the optimal light intensity. The plant’s primary need is for consistent moisture at the root level, making its watering regimen particularly demanding.
The soil should be kept uniformly damp, but never saturated or soggy, to prevent the development of root rot. Using a well-draining, peat-based potting mix, such as an African violet blend, helps retain moisture while allowing excess water to escape. Maintaining high humidity is also particularly beneficial. Growers can increase ambient moisture by setting the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and a shallow layer of water, ensuring the pot bottom does not sit directly in the water.
Temperatures should be stable, with an ideal range falling between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C) for consistent growth. The plant is sensitive to temperature extremes and should be kept away from cold drafts or heat sources like radiators. Since the plant is a vigorous grower, it benefits from a light feeding schedule during the spring and summer months. A diluted, balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer applied every four to six weeks will support its rapid foliage production without risking fertilizer burn.
Multiplying the Plant
Propagating Soleirolia soleirolii is straightforward due to its naturally spreading, rooting habit. Division is the most common method, performed when the plant is repotted or becomes too large. To divide the plant, a section of the root ball and its attached foliage is separated from the main clump. Ensure the division contains a healthy mass of roots before replanting it directly into fresh, moist soil.
New plants can also be started from simple stem cuttings laid onto the surface of the potting medium. The tiny stems will readily produce new roots where they contact the damp soil. Regular maintenance involves pruning the plant by shearing back leggy or sparse patches using clean, sharp scissors, which maintains a neat shape and encourages denser growth from the center of the mat.
Display and Toxicity
The Angel Tears Plant’s dense, trailing habit makes it highly versatile for various display applications. It is frequently used in terrariums, where the high humidity environment mimics its native habitat, or it can serve as a dense ground cover beneath larger, potted plants. Its tendency to cascade makes it an excellent choice for display in small, shallow hanging baskets where the foliage can spill over the edges. For pet owners, this species is a safe choice, as it is considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs.