Frogfruit (Phyla fruticosa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Frogfruit on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Verbenaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Frogfruit
Phyla fruticosa, commonly known as Diamondleaf fogfruit, is a perennial creeping plant belonging to the Verbenaceae family. It is characterized by its small, glossy, deep green leaves and tiny white or lilac flowers that attract pollinators. It's an excellent choice for ground cover in rock gardens, path edges, or as a lawn substitute in low-traffic areas, adding a wild and natural touch.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical Americas, from the southern United States to South America.
Care tips
It thrives in full sun for optimal flowering, though it tolerates some partial shade. It is very drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings to prevent waterlogging. It prefers well-drained, even poor soils, and is not demanding in nutrients. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot, so it's better to err on the side of dry rather than wet.
How to save a dying Frogfruit
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown leaves, wilted and lacking vigor. No flowering or dry flowers.
- First aid
- Transplant to a better-draining spot or pot with holes. Water moderately, only when the substrate is dry. Prune the most damaged parts.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, causing root rot. Also lack of direct sun or excessive shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the roots are not completely rotten and it still has green areas. Act quickly.