Groundcover
Irish Moss
Sagina subulata
Monrovia® varieties
Traits
Varieties We Carry
AureaSagina subulataMonroviaStandardSagina subulataMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
#1MonroviaFrom$9.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 15.
LightPart Shade
WaterHigh
Mature size0.25-0.5 feet × 0.5-1 feet
About Irish Moss
Irish Moss (Sagina subulata) is a low, moss-like perennial ground cover with fine-textured bright green foliage and tiny white spring flowers, suited to cool, moist, shaded spots. In NE Florida zone 9b it is best used as a temporary cool-season plant; summer heat and humidity typically cause significant decline, and it is not reliably hardy here (native range zones 4–8). Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Grows in part shade with some morning sun. In NE Florida's intense heat, afternoon shade is essential — direct summer sun quickly causes browning and dieback. Irish Moss is marginal in zone 9b and should be treated as a cool-season annual.
Water
Requires consistently moist, well-drained soil — never allow to dry out, but avoid waterlogging. Frequent irrigation is needed in NE Florida's warm months; however, summer heat and humidity typically cause this plant to decline regardless of watering.
Soil & Fertilizer
Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic loamy soil. In NE Florida's sandy soils, incorporate organic matter to improve moisture retention. Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer in spring. Not a reliable perennial in zone 9b — expect seasonal decline.
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Common questions
Is Irish Moss a good plant for St. Augustine?
Irish Moss is a groundcover for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 0.25-0.5 feet × 0.5-1 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.