Plant Care Guides / Outdoor & Coastal / Groundcovers
Exotic | Easy Care | Groundcovers
Lippia is one of the most popular lawn alternatives in water-wise gardens. It forms a flat, dense, creeping mat of small, rounded, grey-green leaves that stays tight to the ground and handles moderate foot traffic.
In spring and summer it covers itself in tiny, round, pink-and-white flower heads that attract bees. Once established, it needs almost no water, no mowing and no feeding, which makes it a practical replacement for lawn in areas where conventional grass struggles or where you want to reduce water use. It spreads by sending out runners that root at every node, knitting together into a dense carpet.
1 to 3 cm tall. Spreads indefinitely by runners.
Fast. It covers ground quickly from plugs planted on 20 to 30 cm centres.
Lawn alternative, pathway infill, between pavers, bank cover, play areas (handles moderate foot traffic). One of the best options for replacing thirsty lawn.
Full sun to semi-shade. It performs best in sun but tolerates some shade.
Any soil, including sandy, clay and poor conditions. Very adaptable.
Very low once established. Water regularly during the first season while it roots and spreads, then ease off to almost nothing. Far more water-wise than any conventional lawn grass.
None needed. It thrives in poor soil.
None. Trim edges if it spreads beyond where you want it.
Ask about availability. WhatsApp us to check what is currently in stock, or visit the nursery and we will help you choose the right plant for your spot.
