Mazus reptans 'Alba' is a low growing fast spreading ground cover prized for its dense mat of bright green foliage and delicate white snapdragon like flowers. Blooming prolifically from spring into early summer, it fills gaps between stepping stones, weaves through rock gardens, and softens hard edges with cheerful texture. It remains semi evergreen in mild climates and tolerates light foot traffic.
Height & Spread: 2 - 3 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; tolerates loamy and sandy types
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture especially in full sun
Deer Resistance: Generally unbothered by deer
Native Status
This plant is native to the Himalayas and parts of Central and East Asia. It is widely cultivated in temperate gardens for its ornamental qualities.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts small native bees and honeybees with its tubular flowers that bloom in cool spring weather.
Butterflies
- Visited by early season butterflies such as Spring Azure and small skippers seeking nectar near ground level.
Moths
- May attract small day flying moths in low plantings where blooms are easily accessible.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 10 - 12 in apart to achieve dense ground coverage within a single season.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for planting between pavers, at the front of borders, or in shady corners where traditional lawns struggle. Also effective in rock gardens, containers, and cascading over low walls.
Companion Plants
- Ajuga reptans (Bugleweed) - Provides a slightly taller carpet with blue flower spikes that contrast with Mazus’s white blooms.
- Iberis sempervirens (Candytuft) - Offers a crisp white flower display that aligns in timing and color with Mazus 'Alba'.
- Lysimachia nummularia (Creeping Jenny) - Adds a chartreuse foliage contrast and trailing texture for mixed container or path edge plantings.
- Sagina subulata (Irish Moss) - Forms tight mounds of emerald green foliage with tiny white flowers, blending seamlessly with Mazus in shade pockets.
- Veronica repens (Creeping Speedwell) - Delivers lavender to blue flower tones and similar spreading behavior for low edging.