Turkey Tangle Frogfruit (Phyla nodiflora)

Turkey Tangle Frogfruit

Phyla nodiflora

A low-growing groundcover that weaves tiny blooms into living tapestries. Mat-forming perennial herb; common name: Turkey Tangle Frogfruit.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates brief drought once established and adapts to coastal conditions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to light frost (0°C); thrives in warm temperate to subtropical climates
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small oval to spatulate opposite leaves with slightly serrated glossy green margins
  • Flower: Tiny white to pale purple button-like blooms in dense terminal clusters
  • Stem: Prostrate creeping stems that root at nodes to form continuous groundcover mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 4–6 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late autumn to support dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench to promote flowering
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown stems in early spring to maintain a compact mat shape
  • Deadhead faded blooms to encourage prolonged flowering through the growing season
  • Thin dense patches to improve air circulation and reduce fungal disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover, lawn alternative, pollinator habitat for bees and butterflies