Luzula nivea, commonly known as Snowy Woodrush, is a perennial plant in the Juncaceae family. Native to Europe and Asia, it thrives in moist meadows, woodlands, and rocky slopes. The plant typically grows up to 30 cm in height and features narrow, dark green leaves. Its small white flowers, tinged with green, bloom from May to July.
Snowy Woodrush prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens or as an edging plant. Its compact size and attractive foliage also make it an ideal ground cover for shady areas.
Traditionally, Luzula nivea has been used for medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds and skin irritations due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, indigenous peoples have used its seeds as a food source, grinding them into flour.
Overall, Luzula nivea is a versatile and attractive perennial with both ornamental and traditional medicinal value, making it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape design.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Grass
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Luzula
- Family
- Juncaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-9
- Mature Height
- 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer
- Native Area
- Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Croatia, Slovenia, France
Other names.
