groundcover

Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom

Ruscus hypoglossum 'Mr Lonely'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ruscus hypoglossum, commonly known as Israeli or Jewish asparagus, is an evergreen perennial with leathery, dark green, lance-shaped foliage and distinctive, small, inconspicuous flowers. Its dense, bushy habit makes it a popular ornamental ground cover.

The cultivar Mr Lonely is distinguished by its particularly compact growth and vibrant, glossy foliage, making it an attractive choice for low-maintenance, decorative arrangements and shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round green structure with architectural appeal, thriving in shaded areas.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for shaded, low-care gardens.

Supports local birds and beneficial insects in shaded garden zones.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Bloom period

Spring – Late fall

In flower about 8 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mist foliage during dry periods for best health.
Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide plants every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck in rhizomes in spring 🌱
Water moderately during dry spells
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead foliage in winter

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Expose to full sun ❌
Use heavy, clay soil without amendment ❌
Neglect pruning or dividing

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade-tolerant evergreen groundcoverShadowy border plantLow-maintenance garden accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas HeucheraJapanese forest grass Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom questions

What zones can Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom grow in?

Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom deer resistant?

Yes — Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom bloom?

Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom typically blooms in spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom need full sun?

Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom does best in part shade.

Is Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mr Lonely Spineless Butcher's Broom handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.