Lomandra ‘Little Con’ is a popular ornamental grass, recognized for its hardiness and versatility in various garden settings. This compact, grass-like plant is a favored low-maintenance choice, suitable for a range of landscaping needs.
Key Features and Benefits
Lomandra ‘Little Con’ is a compact, evergreen perennial, typically reaching a height and spread of about 30-40 cm (12-16 inches). It forms a dense, rounded clump of fine, strap-like foliage that maintains a vibrant green color throughout the year. This plant is highly valued for its exceptional drought tolerance once established, making it a reliable choice for dry conditions.
It requires minimal maintenance and adapts well to a variety of well-draining soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The plant also exhibits resistance to many common pests and diseases. It tolerates light frost, wind, and coastal conditions.
Planting and Ongoing Care
Selecting an appropriate site is important for the successful establishment of Lomandra ‘Little Con’. This plant thrives in locations ranging from full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil, though it can tolerate a variety of soil compositions, including poor soils. Ensuring good drainage is important to prevent waterlogging.
When planting, dig a hole that is approximately twice as wide as the plant’s root ball and of similar depth. Carefully remove the plant from its container, gently loosening any roots that may be circling the pot. Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding ground, then backfill the hole with the excavated soil, lightly firming around the base to remove air pockets.
Initial watering is crucial for establishing the plant; water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil around the roots. For the first two to three weeks, water daily. Once established, Lomandra ‘Little Con’ is highly drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering, often relying on natural rainfall. Occasional deep watering during extended dry periods is beneficial.
This plant generally requires minimal or no fertilization. If growth appears sluggish, a slow-release fertilizer formulated for native plants can be applied in spring to promote healthy foliage. Pruning is typically not necessary to maintain its compact, rounded shape. However, if old or brown foliage accumulates, the plant can be cut back to about one-third of its height in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh new growth.
Landscaping Ideas
Lomandra ‘Little Con’ offers numerous possibilities for integrating into garden designs due to its consistent form and texture. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for mass plantings, creating a uniform groundcover. It functions effectively as a border plant along pathways or garden beds, providing a clean and defined edge.
The plant is also suitable for rock gardens, adding softness and year-round greenery. On slopes, its fibrous root system aids in erosion control. Lomandra ‘Little Con’ also performs well in containers, bringing its fine texture and structured form to patios, balconies, or other paved areas.