California Frogfruit Plugs - Native Groundcover Lawn Alternative

Meet California Native Frogfruit

AKA: Lippia nodiflora, Phyla nodiflora, Verbena nodiflora, Phyla repens, Frogfruit, Frog's Breath, Turkey Tangle, etc.

Water-Wise, No-Mow Groundcover Lawn Alternative

Frogfruit is a low-growing, succulent groundcover from the verbena family found in warm climates worldwide. This variety is true California Frogfruit, sustainably grown from wild-harvested strains across Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and San Luis Obispo Counties.

We've studied six distinct, regionally collected strains and refined them into one tough, beautiful native groundcover grown right here in our coastal mountain nursery.

This California-native lawn alternative is mowing-optional, pollinator-friendly, and incredibly drought-tolerant. Phyla nodiflora spreads steadily on slopes, happily sharing a drip head with trees or shrubs, making it ideal for tough spots like banks and utility areas. It naturally hugs the ground in full sun staying 1–2” in height while growing a bit taller and softer in part shade. This resilient succulent is ideal for companioning around fruit trees—especially citrus- for enhancing pollination. With reports of fire-deterring capabilities during the 2024–2025 L.A. wildfires from the Getty Villa, Malibu and more, California Frogfruit is becoming a go-to sustainable lawn replacement.

Low-Water Once Established

After 6–12 months of routine watering, California Frogfruit thrives on minimal irrigation—just 2-3 deep soakings per month in warm seasons. It develops roots up to 10’ deep, helping it stay green and healthy through long, hot summers. Once established, it requires little to no winter watering. It is happy in hot inland sun with high heat. Some winter dormancy is typical. 

Easy Care and Soil Prep

• Soil Needs: Fast-draining soil is essential. Avoid heavy clay or compacted soils. Except on slopes.
  

• Spacing: For fastest fill-in, space plugs 12" apart in warm months. Wider spacing (18–24") works well in larger areas with time and mulch support.
  

• Weed Control: Mulch with seed-free straw if spacing widely to retain moisture and reduce competition from grasses or weeds.

• Fertilize: Amend with organic compost twice a year (cut with sand if soil drainage is an issue). Water deeply after any fertilizer application.
  

SOIL PREP INFO: Click here for soil prep info