Description of Lilaeopsis brasilensis (Brazilian Micro Sword)

Lilaeopsis brasilensis is Brazilian micro sword, a low, grass-like marginal that can form a short carpet. It is often used to edge ponds and soften basket rims because it stays neat and does not get tall.

Appearance

It forms narrow, blade-like leaves from creeping runners. Height is usually 5 to 15cm. In summer it can produce tiny, pale flowers, but the main appeal is the fine green mat.

Care Guide

It needs constant moisture. It also likes light, otherwise the carpet thins and gaps appear.

• Sun: Sun to part shade. More light helps it knit together faster.
• Soil: Aquatic compost or fine gravel with some nutrient, in a shallow basket.
• Water: Keep saturated or in very shallow water.
• Feeding: A small feed in spring helps in baskets.
• Control: Trim edges if it creeps into neighbouring plants.

If you want a crisp edge, plant it in a narrow strip basket and sink that along the pond shelf.

Suitability for Bog Garden

This is a great bog garden plant for the front edge, especially in small setups where you want low ground cover without big leaves. It also works as a living rim around bigger baskets.

It suits liner bogs too, as long as the surface stays wet. If the top dries in summer, keep it lower in the bed.

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