Phyla nodiflora

Also Known As

Lippia canescens
Lippia incisa
Lippia nodiflora
Lippia repens
Phyla nodiflora var. nodiflora
Capeweed
Creeping Lip Plant
Frog Fruit
Frog's Bit
Lippia
Tanglefoot Fogfruit
Turkey Tanglefoot

Plant type

perennial, groundcover

size

H: 4"-6"
W: 2"-4"

planting zones

8a-11

More Options

Phyla nodiflora plant details

Phyla nodiflora is a broadleaf evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial groundcover with green foliage. In fall, spring, summer and winter lavender and white flowers emerge. Attracts butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in average, clay, gritty and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Phyla nodiflora

Plant type: perennial groundcover
Plant family: verbenaceae
Foliage: evergreen or semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 2 IN - 4 IN - wide, 4 IN - 6 IN - tall
Flowers: lavender and white blooms in fall, spring, summer and winter
Uses: lawn alternative

GROWING CONDITIONS for Phyla nodiflora

USDA Zones: 8a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular - low

Soil needs: average, clay, gritty and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Feet, paws and fire proof! This carefree native of CA and beyond is probably one of the best lawn substitutes – especially for difficult areas where nothing will grow! Highly adaptive to most soils: wet, dry, even clay. Plant 2’ apart for a quick, dense, creeping turf only 2” tall or use it for erosion control. Pretty 1/2” lavender-pink flower clusters appear Spring thru Fall, attracting many small butterflies and bees. Mow periodically if bees are a problem. Evergreen, but after cold Winters, toss about some compost for lush, new growth. Edging prevents it from spreading into unwanted areas.

By: Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Lippia is an evergreen, spreading mat-like ground cover that spreads vigorously and only gets a few inches tall. Great for a butterfly garden as it is a source of nectar for may species of butterflies. It is also sturdy enough to serve as a lawn substitute. It can be especially useful in heavy traffic areas, or to discourage digging dogs. Very drought tolerant and tough, can handle drought and flooding. This plant looks better with occasional deep watering and full sun. Endemic to California A good nectar plant for butterflies. No Historical Uses found Found in moist wet places. Communitites located in Wetland-riparian Between 0 and 984 feet.