How to Grow Lomandra grass
iNaturalist
Lomandra grass
Lomandra longifolia
grassLomandra is a hardy, evergreen ornamental grass native to Australia, characterized by long, strappy dark green leaves that form dense clumps. It is extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise landscapes. The plant produces inconspicuous cream-colored flowers followed by small fruits.
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Example Lomandra grass timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lomandra grass
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Lomandra grass
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; very cold-sensitive and grows best in warm climates
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Get my Lomandra grass timeline →Growth Stages
Vegetative Growth
6-18 monthsDense clumps of strappy dark green leaves forming; plant expands outward
Minimal maintenance; occasional deep watering during drought; no fertilizer typically needed; avoid overwatering
Flowering
2-3 monthsSmall cream or yellowish flowers appear among foliage, typically in late spring to early summer
Flowers are inconspicuous and require no special care; maintain regular watering schedule
Fruiting
1-2 monthsSmall fruit structures develop after flowering; seeds mature within fruits
Allow natural seed dispersal if desired for self-seeding; no special care required
Mature
Indefinite; can live 10+ yearsFully established plant with dense, full clumps of foliage reaching mature size
Minimal maintenance; remove dead leaves or entire stems if desired; tolerates neglect; extremely drought-tolerant
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity or spray with water; use neem oil if severe; rarely problematic in well-watered landscapes
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Prune affected areas; apply horticultural oil spray; improve air circulation
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and
Remove by hand; apply copper tape around container rims; use beer traps; generally minor issue
Uses
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
HouseholdLomandra is an excellent choice for water-wise landscapes and xeriscaping projects due to its exceptional drought tolerance and minimal water requirements once established. It reduces water bills while maintaining year-round visual interest. [source]
Ornamental Border and Accent Planting
HouseholdThe strappy, dark green foliage creates attractive textural contrast in landscape designs, used as borders, focal points, or mass plantings in gardens and urban landscapes. Its dense growth habit also provides screening and privacy. [source]
Low-Maintenance Ground Cover
HouseholdDense clumps of Lomandra suppress weeds and require minimal pruning, fertilizing, or pest management, making it ideal for homeowners seeking low-maintenance landscaping solutions. It thrives with neglect once established. [source]
Wildlife Habitat and Food Source
WildlifeDense Lomandra clumps provide shelter and nesting habitat for birds and beneficial insects, while flowers attract pollinators and seeds provide food for native wildlife. It supports local ecosystems without requiring chemical inputs. [source]
Dried Floral and Craft Material
CraftDried Lomandra leaves and flower stems can be used in floral arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects, offering naturalistic texture and color. The dried materials remain stable and attractive for extended periods. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not a harvested plant. For seed collection: allow flowers to fully develop and fruits to mature, then collect dry seed heads and separate seeds from debris. For maintenance: remove dead or damaged leaves and stems as needed; no pruning required but can be cut back if overgrown.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lomandra is native to southeastern Australia and has been used by Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years for basket weaving and other traditional crafts.
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Lomandra grass,' it is not a true grass but a monocot in the Asparagaceae family, making it botanically distinct from ornamental grasses but functionally similar in landscapes.
- 🌱 Some Lomandra species produce edible fruits, and the plant's resilience to fire and drought made it important to Australian ecosystems; it rapidly regenerates after bushfires.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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