Lippia repens
(syn. Phyla nodiflora)

Lippia repens aka Phyla nodiflora Lippia repens aka Phyla nodiflora
Photo (right) courtesy of Ron Wolf

Feet, paws and fire proof! This carefree native of CA and beyond is probably one of the best lawn substitutes – especially for difficult areas where nothing will grow! Highly adaptive to most soils: wet, dry, even clay. Plant 2’ apart for a quick, dense, creeping turf only 2” tall or use it for erosion control. Pretty 1/2” lavender-pink flower clusters appear Spring thru Fall, attracting many small butterflies and bees. Shear flowers periodically if bees are a problem. Evergreen, but after cold Winters, toss about some compost for lush, new growth. Edging prevents it from spreading into unwanted areas.

Lippia repens aka Phyla nodiflora Lippia repens aka Phyla nodiflora

Annie

Full Sun
Avg./Low water

CA Native Perennial Groundcover
USDA zone 8-11