Scleranthus uniflorus

Common Name:
Cushion Plant

Description:
Scleranthus uniflorus is a dense, moss-like perennial ground cover native to alpine and subalpine regions of New Zealand. Often referred to as a cushion plant, it forms a soft, springy mat of bright green foliage that hugs the ground with precision, resembling a living carpet. Unlike true moss, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for rockeries, Japanese-style gardens, between pavers, or as a low-maintenance lawn alternative in small, dry areas. Tiny, pale green to cream flowers appear in summer, though they are inconspicuous and not grown for floral display. This plant is particularly well suited to Melbourne's temperate climate when given a sunny spot with good drainage. While drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from occasional watering in extended dry spells. Its slow, tidy growth habit requires no mowing, and it offers striking year-round form and colour with minimal care.

Form:
Ground Cover
Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:
Height: 0.03–0.05 metres
Width: 0.3–0.6 metres

Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
Pale Green
Cream

Key Attributes:
Suitable for Pots
Drought Tolerant
Low Maintenance
Perennial
Foliage Contrast
Excellent for Rockeries
Suitable for Alpine and Gravel Gardens
Weed Suppressant
Moss Alternative

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals

Companion Plants:
Leptinella dioica
Thymus serpyllum (Creeping Thyme)
Sedum acre
Raoulia australis
Armeria maritima (Thrift)