Q.
A neighbor suggested we look closely at Australian racer. It stays low and is
green. Seeing it in place, we like it. What are your thoughts about it?
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| Myoporum, or Australian Racer as it is known by local nurseries, was a ground cover substitute. As it got larger it would frequently die in the center after a few years. Its major problems are spider mites and root rot from watering it too often. |
A.
“Australian racer” (Myoporum parvifolium) works as a sprawling groundcover
as long as you don’t walk on it. It spreads in every direction about 6 feet or
more (space plants at least 6 feet apart) but not considered a “desert
plant” (mesic, not xeric). It handles the high and low temperatures of Las
Vegas and used to be quite popular. It uses less water than a lawn but should
not be watered every day. Ever. Water it as frequently as a fruit tree or
eucalyptus.
https://www.public.asu.edu/~camartin/plants/Plant%20html%20files/myoporumparvifolium.html
It’s negatives? If it’s watered
daily, it will definitely get root rot and die. Watch this plant for spider
mites during the heat. It can also be short-lived (maybe 15 to 20 years). When
it is about 5 to 7 years old, cut the long and thick stems back or it develops
stems without leaves toward the center. Use three to four drip emitters and wet
the roots to about 18 inches deep.