Irish Moss (Sagina subulata) is a low-maintenance ground cover that is perfect for use in rock gardens, between pavers, at the edges of a path, and as a low-footfall, limited area lawn substitute.This lush and low-growing evergreen perennial resembles moss, but it's actually part of the Carnation family (Caryophyllaceae) and has much different growing requirements.Sometimes referred to as Pearlwort, it's often confused with a similar, but less common species called Scotch Moss (Arenaria verna). While alike, Irish Moss stays a vibrant green throughout the year and Scotch Moss has a more golden shade.When in bloom, both types have little white flowers. The Irish Moss variety are solitary, whereas those found on Scotch Moss appear in clusters.
Irish Moss Care
Sagina Subulata
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Humidity
Normal
Lighting
Full Sun
Hardiness zone
4 - 8
Difficulty
Medium
Hibernation
Cold Period
How to Care for the Plant
Water
It can be tricky to get the watering levels right with Irish Moss. If you go too far either way, it can result in brown patches developing. It isn't drought-tolerant, and it can't cope with overly soggy conditions. Regular, but not deep watering is best for Irish Moss.
Pruning
Care for Irish moss is simple and includes cutting out browning patches in older mats. Growing Irish moss reaches only 1 to 2 inches in height and when used as a lawn replacement, does not need mowing.
Fertilizer
Using a slow-release fertilizer annually in the springtime can help the plant grow to a tidy uniform one inch height. Under ideal conditions each plant will quickly increase to cover a spread of about nine inches.
Sunlight
Irish Moss grows best in full sun or partial shade. If it's in an overly shady position, it can result in the plant losing some of its compact quality, and less attractive mounds can develop.
Soil
Irish Moss doesn't do well if the soil becomes water-logged. It really needs to be well-drained.
Temperature
Irish Moss is fully hardy in USDA Zones 5 to 9. This groundcover is not at its best when planted in areas of intensely hot and dry summers, and this type of weather can result in the dense green shades turning an unattractive burnt brown. Usually, once the weather cools in the fall, the moss reverts to its normal color again.
Container
Growing Irish moss is also attractive in containers.
Popularity
210 people already have this plant 67 people have added this plant to their wishlists
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