Species

Lomandra longifoliaAustralian Mat Rush

6 other cultivars

grass

Evergreen Baby Mat Rush

Lomandra longifolia 'Evergreen Baby'

The Story

Plant Bio

Lomandra longifolia, commonly known as spiny-head mat rush, is a robust, evergreen perennial native to Australia that forms dense tussocks of narrow, strap-like leaves. The species is highly adaptable, thriving in both drought-prone soils and areas subject to periodic flooding while producing small, scented yellow flower spikes.

'LM600', often sold under the trade names Evergreen Baby and Baby Breeze, is a compact, fine-leafed selection that naturally maintains a rounded form of sixteen to eighteen inches in height and width. Its deep green foliage retains its color well under diverse soil conditions, though it may shift to a lighter lime-gold tone in nutrient-poor soils.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round structural interest with its compact, rounded habit and arching, deep green foliage.

Highly effective for erosion control on slopes and suitable for rain gardens or water-sensitive urban designs.

Provides shelter for beneficial insects and small ground-dwelling fauna.

SpeciesLomandra longifoliaAustralian Mat Rush

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

18"

Width

18"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low to Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil, though clay and sandy soils are also tolerated.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate air pockets.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant, keeping it clear of the crown to prevent rot.
Irrigate regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.

Pro Tip

Avoid shearing this cultivar to the ground like a typical deciduous ornamental grass; cutting hard into the old, leafless woody base can permanently stunt or kill the plant.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during the first summer to help the root system establish.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring if you want to maintain a deep green foliage color.
Ensure the soil drains reasonably well to prevent waterlogging around the crown.

Don't

Do not shear the plant hard into the old, woody stems, as it will fail to regenerate.
Do not bury the crown of the plant below the soil line when planting.
Do not over-irrigate in heavy clay soils where water pools for extended periods.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Mass PlantingBorder EdgingRain GardenRock GardenErosion Control

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Evergreen Baby Mat Rush questions

What zones can Evergreen Baby Mat Rush grow in?

Evergreen Baby 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 Evergreen Baby Mat Rush deer resistant?

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

When does Evergreen Baby Mat Rush bloom?

Evergreen Baby Mat Rush typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Evergreen Baby Mat Rush need full sun?

Evergreen Baby Mat Rush does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Evergreen Baby Mat Rush drought tolerant?

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