Sagina subulata (Irish Moss) is a prostrate herbaceous evergreen perennial forming a dense, compact mat of ground-hugging, emerald-green foliage. Tufts of narrow, awl-shaped leaves cover the thin, creeping stems. Tiny star-shaped flowers held above the foliage on thin stalks appear sporadically throughout the growing season. They give way to small, smooth, brown, triangular seeds in oblong capsules. Use Irish Moss where a very low, fine-textured carpet of green is desired, such as around stepping stones, between flagstones, or at the edges of a path as they tolerate light foot traffic. This plant can be used as a lawn grass substitute.
Requirement | |
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Hardiness | 4,5,6,7,8 |
Heat Zones | 3,4,5,6,7 |
Climate Zones | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 1A, 3B |
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Caryophyllaceae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, Early Spring, Mid Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer, Mid Summer, Late Summer |
Height | 1' - 2' |
Spread | < 1' |
Water Needs | Low, Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden |
Planting Place | Ground Covers, Patio and Containers |