How to Grow Creeping Lomandra
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Creeping Lomandra
Lomandra spicata
grassLomandra spicata is a low-growing, creeping grass-like perennial native to southeastern Australia with fine, strap-like foliage and small cream or white flower spikes. It forms dense, attractive groundcover and is extremely hardy, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance once established. This evergreen plant is valued for its ornamental appeal, erosion control, and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
When should you plant Creeping Lomandra in your zone?
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Example Creeping Lomandra timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Creeping Lomandra
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 Creeping Lomandra
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8b-11; highly cold-hardy for a native Australian species, tolerating brief frosts to around 15°F (-9°C)
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Get my Creeping Lomandra timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-8 weeksYoung plants are small rosettes with fine, linear foliage; roots are developing
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; protect from foot traffic until established
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsPlants develop wider clumps with increasing foliage density; creeping rhizomes begin spreading horizontally
Reduce watering frequency as plant becomes established; light feeding with balanced slow-release fertilizer optional but not necessary
Maturation & Spreading
6-12 monthsDense groundcover forming; plant spreads via rhizomes to fill spaces between clumps
No supplemental watering needed in most climates; minimal fertilizer required; remove any debris from foliage
Flowering
6-10 weeksCream or white flower spikes emerge above foliage in late spring to early summer; flowers are ornamental but subtle
Deadheading is optional; allow flowers to persist for ornamental value and wildlife attraction
Full Groundcover
OngoingMature planting forms uniform, dense carpet of fine foliage; plant is fully self-sustaining
Virtually maintenance-free; occasional light raking to remove dead leaves; no pruning needed unless damaged
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Generally not a major issue; remove by hand if present; minimize mulch depth around young plants
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove affected plants and improve soil conditions before replanting
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Rare; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestation occurs; improve air circulation
Uses
Groundcover and Landscape Design
OrnamentalCreeping Lomandra is ideal for slopes, erosion control, xeriscaping, and creating low-maintenance garden beds. Its fine texture and spreading habit make it valuable for softening hardscapes and replacing lawn in drought-prone areas. [source]
Erosion Control
HouseholdThe spreading rhizomatous root system stabilizes soil on banks, hillsides, and areas prone to erosion. It is widely used in revegetation projects and sustainable landscaping. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe dense foliage provides shelter for small lizards, insects, and ground-nesting birds. Flowers attract native bees and pollinators. [source]
Ornamental Foliage for Arrangements
CraftThe fine, arching foliage can be harvested for fresh or dried floral arrangements and adds delicate texture to bouquets. [source]
Harvest Tips
Lomandra spicata is not harvested in the traditional sense. For propagation: divide established clumps in spring, ensuring each division has roots and growing points; or collect seed heads in late summer and sow in well-draining seed mix. Foliage can be gently pruned to shape or remove damage, though this is rarely necessary.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Lomandra spicata is native to coastal heathlands and grasslands of southeastern Australia, where it naturally creeps across sandy and rocky soils with minimal rainfall.
- 🌱 The common name 'spicata' refers to the dense, spike-like flower clusters; despite being a grass-like plant, Lomandra is actually a member of the Asparagaceae family, related to asparagus.
- 🌱 This species is extremely long-lived and requires virtually no maintenance once established, making it popular in 'plant-and-forget' sustainable landscapes and public plantings.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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