Hyacinth Grass

Hyacinth Grass (Reineckia carnea) is a hardy, evergreen strappy plant related to liriope and mondo grass, growing 30cm to 40cm high and about 50cm wide. It is one of the few plants that is content in deep shade, clay and wind. In spring and summer it sends up short stems of scented pink-white flowers, followed by red berries in most autumns.

Why you'll love it

• Thrives in shade. It does not mind deep shade, which makes it valuable under trees and along south facing walls.
• Very frost hardy. It stands up to hard frost and exposed, windy positions.
• Scented flowers, then berries. Short stems of pink-white starry flowers appear in spring and summer, followed by red berries in most autumns.
• Handles clay. It grows happily in clay soil, as long as the soil holds some moisture.
• Tidy and easy. Bright evergreen leaves stay neat all year, and clumps can be divided in spring to make more plants.

Where it works best

Groundcover in shade. Plant 30cm apart to form a continuous carpet under trees and shrubs, where grass will not grow.

Borders and edging. A single row at 40cm gives a soft, strappy edge along shaded paths and beds.

Exposed and windy sites. Because it is tolerant of exposed situations, it suits shaded spots that other plants find too windy.

Growing Hyacinth Grass in Australia

Position and climate. Shade or part shade. It is very frost hardy, so it grows across most of the country, from cool temperate gardens to the shadier gardens of the subtropics. Avoid hot afternoon sun.

Soil. Slightly acidic, moisture retaining soil. It copes with clay, and benefits from compost dug in before planting.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks. After that it needs only moderate water. A regular liquid plant food keeps the foliage looking its best.

Pruning. None needed beyond tidying tatty leaves. Divide clumps in spring if they become crowded, and replant the pieces.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Hyacinth Grass as tube stock, in 140mm pots in packs of 10 and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. Tube stock is a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly and is the economical choice for covering a large area, while the potted packs give a fuller clump to start with. Plants travel upright, and are best planted out soon after arrival.

Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as sold out, and the notify button on this page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Liriope, a close relative
• Plants for full shade
• Groundcovers for low maintenance gardens
• The best groundcovers for shade in Australian gardens

Common questions

Does it need shade?

It prefers shade or part shade, and is happy in deep shade. Strong afternoon sun is the one thing to avoid.

How do I make more plants?

Divide clumps in spring, and replant the pieces. Water them in well and mulch.

Are the berries edible?

No. Treat them as ornamental, and keep them away from small children and chewing pets.