Sagina subulata

Common Name:
Irish Moss / Pearlwort

Description:
Sagina subulata, commonly known as Irish Moss or Pearlwort, is a delicate, low-growing ground cover prized for its fine, moss-like foliage and soft, cushiony texture. Despite its name, it is not a true moss but a flowering perennial that forms dense mats of lush green foliage. During late spring to early summer, it is dotted with tiny, star-shaped white flowers, adding a subtle yet charming appeal. Perfect for between stepping stones, rockeries, or as a lawn alternative in small areas, it thrives in consistently moist, well-drained soils. Best suited to cooler climates like Melbourne’s, Sagina subulata enjoys part shade to full sun, though it performs best with some afternoon protection from harsh summer heat. It stays green year-round in temperate conditions and will slowly spread without being invasive, offering a soft, naturalistic carpet effect that can tolerate light foot traffic.

Form:
Ground Cover

Mature Size:
Height: up to 5 cm
Width: up to 30 cm

Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Spring
Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
White

Key Attributes:
Suitable for Pots
Disease Resistant
Perennial
Herbaceous
Suitable for Ground Cover Between Pavers
Low Maintenance

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:
Thymus serpyllum (Creeping Thyme)
Leptinella spp.
Ajuga reptans
Dichondra repens