Mortellaro's Nursery
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Frog Fruit from Mortellaros
Frog Fruit
Turkey Tangle
Phyla nodiflora
Frog Fruit, also known as Turkey Tangle, is a fast-growing, Texas native groundcover known for its ability to thrive in tough conditions and spread quickly to form a dense, low mat. Its tiny, white-to-pinkish button-like flowers bloom spring through fall, drawing in bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while its trailing stems root at the nodes to cover bare ground efficiently.
This plant excels in full sun to part shade, and tolerates a wide range of soil types, including alkaline and compacted soils. It is one of the few low-growing groundcovers that can handle periodic flooding and poor drainage, yet also survives dry conditions once established. It is commonly used for erosion control, between stepping stones, parkways, or as a natural lawn alternative. While not suited for high foot traffic, it can tolerate light use.
Frog Fruit typically stays under 4 inches tall, but spreads outward indefinitely. It can be mowed on a high setting to maintain a tidier appearance or left to sprawl for a more naturalistic effect. Spacing is not critical, as plants quickly root and fill gaps, but planting 12–18 inches apart will ensure rapid coverage. It is deer resistant, non-toxic, and safe for pets and children.
Hardy in USDA Zones 7–11, Frog Fruit stays evergreen in mild winters but may brown slightly in cold snaps. It recovers quickly in spring and rarely needs protection. Light trimming in late winter can help rejuvenate thick mats or control spread.
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Texas native groundcover |
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Pollinator-friendly |
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Tolerates poor drainage |
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Height:4-5 in |
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Spread:12-24 in |
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Spacing:12-18 in |
USDA Hardiness Zone 7a
Characteristics & Attributes
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Deer Tolerance
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Exposure
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Habit
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Soil pH Preference
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Water Needs
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Texas Native
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Tolerates Poor Drainage
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