Horseherb (Calyptocarpus vialis)
A dependable native groundcover for dry shade that forms a dense green carpet with minimal care. It spreads steadily to cover bare soil and produces small yellow flowers through the warm season. Especially useful under trees where turf struggles.
Typical Uses
• Dry shade groundcover
• Under live oaks and large trees
• Erosion control on shaded slopes
• Naturalistic native plantings
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to full shade (best in part shade to shade)
Water: Low once established
Soil: Very adaptable; handles clay and compacted soils well
Size
Height: Low
Spread: Spreading colony
Behavior
Evergreen or Deciduous: Typically dormant in winter and height of Central Texas Summer
Growth rate: Fast spreading
Traffic tolerance: Light
Deer resistance: Moderate
Ecology
Native range: Texas and the southern U.S.
Wildlife value: Provides cover for beneficial insects and supports small pollinators
Extra Notes
Spreads by underground runners and will fill open soil over time. Can be edged or thinned if it grows beyond its space. Rarely needs mowing, but can be cut back if desired. Recommended spacing 12” apart for quicker coverage.
Source
Grown by Native Texas Nursery
Pickup & Delivery
Online orders are available for in-person pickup in Southwest Austin on weekends (subject to availability). After purchase I will contact you to schedule a pickup time. Alternate pickup days can usually be arranged if needed. Free delivery on orders over $200.
Horseherb (Calyptocarpus vialis)
A dependable native groundcover for dry shade that forms a dense green carpet with minimal care. It spreads steadily to cover bare soil and produces small yellow flowers through the warm season. Especially useful under trees where turf struggles.
Typical Uses
• Dry shade groundcover
• Under live oaks and large trees
• Erosion control on shaded slopes
• Naturalistic native plantings
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to full shade (best in part shade to shade)
Water: Low once established
Soil: Very adaptable; handles clay and compacted soils well
Size
Height: Low
Spread: Spreading colony
Behavior
Evergreen or Deciduous: Typically dormant in winter and height of Central Texas Summer
Growth rate: Fast spreading
Traffic tolerance: Light
Deer resistance: Moderate
Ecology
Native range: Texas and the southern U.S.
Wildlife value: Provides cover for beneficial insects and supports small pollinators
Extra Notes
Spreads by underground runners and will fill open soil over time. Can be edged or thinned if it grows beyond its space. Rarely needs mowing, but can be cut back if desired. Recommended spacing 12” apart for quicker coverage.
Source
Grown by Native Texas Nursery
Pickup & Delivery
Online orders are available for in-person pickup in Southwest Austin on weekends (subject to availability). After purchase I will contact you to schedule a pickup time. Alternate pickup days can usually be arranged if needed. Free delivery on orders over $200.