About
Scleranthus biflorus, the two-flowered knawel, is an unusual, hardy evergreen perennial forming a mound of tiny, spiky, moss-like, dark-green leaves with inconspicuous, bronze flowers in summer. Excellent for Japanese gardens, as ground cover, or for filling gaps in paving and rock crevices.
About the genus
Scleranthus are compact, evergreen perennials forming bright-green mounds of moss-like, linear foliage with petal-less, yellow-green flowers in summer. Grown as ground cover, in rock gardens and between paving stones.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Native toAustralia, New Zealand
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil in full sun. Will not tolerate waterlogging or very hot, humid weather. Once established, will cope with light foot traffic well
PruningNo pruning required but can be cut back annually to encourage fresh growth
PropagationPropagate by division when the centre of the plant begins to die back with age
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free