Luzula sylvatica – Graceful Evergreen Grass for Shaded Gardens

Luzula sylvatica, commonly known as Great Wood-rush, is an elegant, clump-forming evergreen perennial grass perfect for adding texture and year-round interest to shaded or woodland gardens. Its dark green, slightly arching leaves create a soft, grassy effect, brightening shady corners where many plants struggle to thrive.

Flowering occurs in spring to early summer (April to June), producing delicate, brownish, airy flower heads above the foliage, which add subtle movement and texture to the garden.

Best positioned in partial to full shade, Luzula sylvatica thrives in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. It is ideal for underplanting trees and shrubs, naturalising in woodland gardens, or stabilising shaded banks.

Care tips: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Feed lightly in early spring with a balanced fertiliser or well-rotted organic matter to encourage healthy growth.

Prune in late winter or early spring by trimming back old or damaged foliage to allow fresh shoots to emerge.

Luzula sylvatica is a low-maintenance, graceful grass that adds year-round structure and softness to shady UK gardens.