#matforming

Plant of the Day

Wednesday 20 April 2022

Under a Carpinus betulus (hornbeam) hedge the Viola riviniana (dog-violet, wood violet) is thriving. This mat-forming rhizomatous perennial grows in moist but well–drained soil but will tolerate drought once established.

Plant of the Day

Tuesday 7 May 2019

This evergreen, Thymus longicaulis (thyme), forms a low growing, spreading mat of mildly scented green leaves. From late spring through the summer it is covered with clusters of rosy-mauve flowers which are enjoyed by the bees. It needs a sunny site and is drought tolerant once establish.

Plant of the Day

Friday 16 June 2017

In the Dry Meadow at Cambridge Botanic Garden, UK, the Oenothera macrocarpa subsp. incana (evening primrose) is adding to the display with large yellow saucer-shaped flowers on beautiful, silvery foliage. This is a drought tolerant, mat-forming species from southern and central North America which needs sun and good drainage. The meadow is an outcome of research at the Department of Landscape, Sheffield University as explained in the useful interpretation. 

Plant of the Day

Sunday 21 May 2017

The evergreen herbaceous perennial Phlox subulata 'McDaniel's Cushion' (moss phlox) forms a compact mat up to 10cm tall, with small, linear leaves and bright deep pink flowers. It grows in well-drained, fertile soil in full sun, and copes well in areas of low rainfall.

Plant of the Day

Thursday 6 September 2018 

A great selection of named forms of Sempervivum (houseleek) were on display at the Beth Chatto garden and nursery, Essex. These hardy, evergreen perennial plants form a mat with clusters of fleshy rosettes. They require full sun and a very well drained soil.