Sagina subulata, commonly known as Irish Moss, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial valued for its dense, moss-like foliage and neat, compact habit. Forming a soft carpet of bright green, fine-textured leaves, it provides an attractive and versatile groundcover for a range of garden settings.
In late spring to early summer, small white star-shaped flowers appear above the foliage, adding subtle seasonal interest without detracting from its clean, uniform appearance. Irish Moss is particularly effective between paving stones, along path edges, in rockeries, alpine gardens, and as a lawn alternative in light-traffic areas.
Thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, Sagina subulata prefers consistent moisture but will not tolerate prolonged waterlogging. Low-maintenance and evergreen in mild conditions, it offers year-round structure and texture.
Key Features:
- Dense, moss-like evergreen foliage
- Small white flowers in late spring to early summer
- Ideal for paving gaps, rockeries and alpine gardens
- Suitable as a low-maintenance groundcover
- Fully hardy in the UK
A compact and reliable perennial, Sagina subulata provides neat, vibrant groundcover and subtle seasonal interest in a wide range of garden designs.
Sagina Subulata (Irish Moss)
Plant Factfile
Height 2-5cm
Spread 30-45cm (can spread gradually to form larger mats) Soil Moist but well-drained soil; prefers loam or sandy soil; dislikes prolonged waterlogging Flowers Small white star-shaped flowers; May to July Position Full sun to partial shade
Hardiness H7 – Hardy in the severest European continental climates (fully hardy throughout the UK) What you’re buying
Plant images are used for illustrative purposes only, so you know what your plant will look like once fully grown.
You’re purchasing your chosen size of plug plant (by selecting “Plant Size” option above).
Mini Plugs: Each plug is approximately 15mm sq, containing tender young seedlings in need of pricking out and potting on to grow before being planted out.
Midi Plugs: Each plug is approximately 20mm sq, plants are a little more mature than the mini's, can sometimes be planted out if the weather is good and the last frost has passed.
Maxi Plugs: Each plug is approximately 30mm sq, plants are more mature, sometimes over a year old, which can mean well developed root systems and/or fewer leaves due to winter dormancy or cutting back. Generally hardened off and garden ready, though for best results good weather is preferred for planting out.
Full information about plant sizes, including pictures, can be found here.
Delivery & Dispatch
Delivery Costs
- £3 flat rate delivery on all orders under £50
- Free delivery on orders over £50
When Orders Are Posted
Orders are normally posted on the Tuesday following your order. This helps us work efficiently and also reduces unnecessary trips and emissions. In most cases, after Tuesday posting your plants should arrive before the weekend.
Packaging & Plant Care During Transit
Our plugs are gently squeezed and carefully packed into breathable, unsealed plastic bags. The plants are then packed into recycled cardboard packaging wherever possible.