Species

Lomandra longifoliaAustralian Mat Rush

6 other cultivars

grass

Tanika Mat-rush

Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lomandra longifolia is an evergreen Australian perennial forming dense tussocks of narrow, strap-like leaves that remain deep green throughout the year. The species produces small, clustered spikes of creamy-yellow flowers on sturdy stems nestled within the foliage from autumn through spring.

'LM300' is a compact, fine-leafed selection featuring exceptionally soft-textured foliage with a graceful, weeping habit. Unlike the wild species, this cultivar has non-spiny leaf tips and is largely sterile, making it a highly refined and non-invasive choice for structured landscape plantings.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round architectural structure with its fine, weeping, dark green foliage and soft texture.

Highly effective for stabilizing slopes and controlling soil erosion on difficult banks.

Offers excellent ground cover and nesting habitat for small birds and beneficial insects.

SpeciesLomandra longifoliaAustralian Mat Rush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

24"

Width

26"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Autumn – Spring

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with well-draining soil in full sun to moderate shade.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and of equal depth.
Position the plant so the crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent rot.
Backfill with native soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly until established.

Pro Tip

Avoid annual shearing, which severely weakens the crown; instead, prune the entire clump hard to four inches above the ground only once every three to five years to rejuvenate the foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
Ensure the crown remains completely clear of soil and heavy mulch layers.
Apply a low-phosphorus or balanced slow-release fertilizer sparingly in early spring.

Don't

Do not plant in low-lying areas prone to standing water or chronically wet soil.
Do not shear the foliage annually like deciduous ornamental grasses.
Do not bury the base of the plant below the nursery soil line during installation.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Mass PlantingErosion ControlBorder EdgingRock GardenUnderstory Planting

Companion Plants

Rosmarinus officinalis Salvia clevelandii Agave attenuata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tanika Mat-rush questions

What zones can Tanika Mat-rush grow in?

Tanika Mat-rush is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tanika Mat-rush deer resistant?

Yes — Tanika Mat-rush is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Tanika Mat-rush bloom?

Tanika Mat-rush typically blooms in autumn through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tanika Mat-rush need full sun?

Tanika Mat-rush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Tanika Mat-rush drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tanika Mat-rush handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.