Description
Luzula ulophylla is a quietly beautiful, evergreen woodrush native to European woodlands, valued for its soft texture, shade tolerance and year‑round structure. It forms dense, tufted clumps of glossy green leaves that arch gently, creating a naturalistic woodland aesthetic.
This species excels in low‑light environments and thrives in moisture‑retentive soils, making it a reliable choice for under-planting, sensory gardens, wildlife‑friendly schemes and commercial ground-cover projects.
Key Features:
Height: Typically 20–30 cm.
Spread: 30–45 cm, forming slowly expanding clumps.
Flower Colour: Soft, pale brown to cream inflorescences held above the foliage.
Foliage: Evergreen, glossy, mid‑green, with a soft, tactile texture.
Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK (H7), tolerating frost and cold woodland conditions.
Best Ground Conditions: Moist, humus‑rich, well‑drained soil; thrives in partial to full shade.
Awards: Recognised for reliability in shaded planting schemes (no RHS AGM currently listed).
Production Notes: Grown without artificial light or heating, ensuring low‑carbon, sustainable propagation.
Plant Care:
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment.
Mulch annually with leaf mould or compost to mimic woodland conditions.
Trim away tired foliage in late winter to refresh the plant.
Suitable for containers, woodland edges, shady borders and naturalistic planting.
Pollinator, Sensory & Ecological Value:
Pollinator Value: Although not a major nectar source, its flowers support small insects and contribute to micro‑habitat diversity.
Sensory Value: Soft, arching foliage provides gentle movement and tactile interest, ideal for sensory gardens and SEND environments.
Ecological Value: Excellent for ground-cover in shaded habitats, suppressing weeds and stabilising soil while offering shelter for invertebrates.
Commercial Notes:
LUZULA ulophylla are supplied as strong, well-rooted, hardy plug plants ready for potting into pots up-to 2lt formats.
Highly reliable, low‑maintenance and evergreen – ideal for mass planting.
Performs exceptionally in shaded commercial landscapes, courtyards, and under tree canopies.
Strong sustainability credentials due to peat‑free, unheated, low‑input production.
Pairs well with ferns, epimediums, hostas, and other woodland perennials.
