An indestructible strappy-leaved native that thrives in sun or shade, wet or dry, coast or inland. The workhorse of low-maintenance landscaping and erosion control.
At a glance
- Plant type: Ornamental grass
- Mature size: 1 m tall
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Spiny-head Mat-rush
Lomandra longifolia is a moderate-growing ornamental grass in the Asparagaceae family, native to New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania. It reaches around 1 m tall at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Cream green flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Spiny-head Mat-rush
Spiny-head Mat-rush suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Spiny-head Mat-rush provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Spiny-head Mat-rush handles dry conditions well once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Spiny-head Mat-rush after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Spiny-head Mat-rush in the garden
Spiny-head Mat-rush earns its place for holding soil on banks and slopes, pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same very drought tolerant and warm-temperate climate as Spiny-head Mat-rush. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
