Lomandra Longifolia 'Tanika'

Mat Rush 'Tanika'

Botanical Name: Lomandra longifolia 'Tanika'
Family: Asparagaceae
Origin: Australia
Plant Type: Strappy grass-like perennial

Overview

A proven, landscape-grade lomandra that stays neat in Adelaide and South Australian conditions. ‘Tanika’ forms dense, arching clumps that handle heat, wind and coastal exposure once established—ideal for verges, path edges and seaside plantings. Subtle spring flower spikes add a soft native look while the foliage delivers year-round structure with minimal fuss.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.5-0.8 m H x 0.6-0.9 m W
• Growth Rate: 20-30 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Fresh mid-green, fine/strappy leaves in neat clumps — new growth lime-green before deepening; in cool winters foliage reads deeper blue-green; in hot/dry spells older blades may show olive/bronze tips (normal)
• Flowers: Subtle cream spikes in spring–summer; lightly fragrant up close
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen mounds provide year-round structure; spring flowers and seedheads add soft texture and movement
• Wildlife Value: Supports local biodiversity—dense clumps offer shelter; flowers feed pollinators
• Tolerance: Drought tolerant once established; light–moderate frost tolerant; coastal hardy with good drainage; heat and wind tolerant; clay tolerant in free-draining clay/loam
• Planting Density: Mass planting: 2–3 plants per m²; Edges/drifts: 1–2 plants per linear metre
• Pet Friendly: Yes — generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Mulch in spring; comb or lightly trim tired foliage in late winter/early spring (avoid cutting into the crown); remove spent flower stems; use a low-phosphorus/native-safe feed in early spring
• Lifespan: 15-25 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to mildly alkaline with good drainage

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Define paths and driveways with a continuous ribbon of texture and movement
• Mass plant on banks or hot, dry strips for a drought-smart, weed-suppressing groundcover
• Feature near entries and outdoor living spaces; great in modern coastal schemes and large pots

Why You Will Love It

‘Tanika’ gives a finished, evergreen look with almost no fuss—perfect for Adelaide verges, courtyards and coastal sites. It thrives in South Australia’s Mediterranean climate, staying tidy through wind, heat and dry spells once established. Add the soft spring flowers and native vibe and you have a stylish, resilient backbone plant for borders and mass plantings across SA.