Kurapia Groundcover – A Lawn Substitute

Characteristics

Kurapia is a low growing, dark green perennial groundcover belonging to the Verbena family, not to be confused with the invasive, native to California species, Phyla nodiflora. Kurapia is sterile and non-invasive, and a perfect lawn replacement, or for hillside stabilization.

Kurapia’s dense canopy and deep root system makes it drought tolerant and will take a wide range of soil types and soil conditions, including salinity. It takes full sun, partial shade, and light foot traffic. It is not a groundcover for kids to play on.

Kurapia will reach 3–4 inches tall and produces white flowers from spring to summer, mostly when in full sun exposure. Mowing is not required, but we recommend cutting every 4-6 weeks so as to keep it under control. Also, a weed eater works, and is preferred by our maintenance foreman.

Installation

Kurapia comes in flats containing 72 plugs per tray. Although it can be planted closer than 18 inches on center, it’s not necessary in most cases. It will take 444 plugs per 1000 square feet at 18 inches on center.

Kurapia can be installed year round, especially in San Diego. Fastest establishment period is from March to September. But note that excessive cold to hot temperatures will slow down the fill in time. Kurapia takes 3-4 months to establish itself.

Kurapia prefers sandy to sandy loam soils. Clay soils should be amended with a proper compost at the rate of 2-3 yards per 1000 sq. ft. to ensure adequate drainage. Prior to planting, weeds should be sprayed with repeat applications of a non-selective herbicide and removed prior to planting.

Kurapia Groundcover – A Lawn Substitute

Irrigation

Kurapia is drought tolerant and will take low water conditions, but not for the first 2-4 weeks, and that needs to be extended for excessive heat conditions. After the initial establishment period, soak the planting area twice a week. Additional irrigation may be required for sandy soils and full sun exposure.

Fertilization

Start fertilizing as soon as new growth is showing with a standard fertilizer such as Gro-Power every two weeks until full coverage is complete. From then on, once annually in the spring.