Myrosma: A Tropical Ground Cover for Shade Gardens
If you’re looking to add some lush, tropical foliage to your shaded garden spaces, you might want to consider myrosma (Myrosma). This lesser-known perennial forb brings a touch of the Amazon rainforest to your landscape, though it comes with some specific growing requirements that make it suitable only for certain climates and garden situations.
What is Myrosma?
Myrosma is a small genus of herbaceous perennial plants belonging to the prayer plant family (Marantaceae). As a forb, it’s a non-woody plant that dies back to ground level but returns year after year from its root system. Don’t expect towering heights from this one – myrosma stays relatively low to the ground, making it perfect for use as a ground cover or understory plant in tropical garden settings.
Where Does Myrosma Grow?
Originally native to tropical South America, particularly the Amazon basin, myrosma has found its way to other tropical locations. In the United States, you’ll find it established in Puerto Rico, where it has naturalized and reproduces on its own in the wild.
Why You Might (or Might Not) Want to Grow Myrosma
Let’s be honest – myrosma isn’t going to be the star of your garden show. Here’s what you should know before adding it to your plant wishlist:
The Good:
- Provides reliable ground cover in deeply shaded areas
- Low-maintenance once established in suitable conditions
- Adds tropical texture to shade gardens
- Perennial growth means it returns year after year
The Considerations:
- Extremely limited climate tolerance – only suitable for USDA zones 10-11
- Requires consistently moist soil and high humidity
- Not native to most areas where it’s grown
- Limited availability in nurseries
Growing Conditions and Care
If you live in a tropical or subtropical climate and want to try growing myrosma, here’s what this finicky plant demands:
- Light: Shade to partial shade – direct sunlight will likely scorch the leaves
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter
- Water: Consistent moisture is crucial – let it dry out and you’ll have problems
- Humidity: High humidity levels (think rainforest conditions)
- Temperature: Warm temperatures year-round – cannot tolerate frost
Landscape Use and Design
Myrosma works best as a ground cover in tropical shade gardens or as an understory plant beneath larger tropical specimens. It’s not going to provide dramatic flowers or fall color – this is strictly a foliage plant for creating that lush, jungle-like atmosphere in suitable climates.
Consider Native Alternatives
Since myrosma isn’t native to most areas where it might be grown, consider exploring native ground covers that could provide similar benefits for your local ecosystem. Native plants support local wildlife, require less maintenance once established, and are better adapted to local growing conditions.
For tropical areas, research native ferns, sedges, or other low-growing native plants that could fill the same ecological niche while supporting local pollinators and wildlife.
The Bottom Line
Myrosma can be an interesting addition to tropical shade gardens for gardeners who enjoy collecting unusual plants and have the right growing conditions. However, its very specific requirements and non-native status mean it’s not the best choice for most gardeners. If you’re set on growing it, make sure you can provide the consistently warm, humid, shaded conditions it needs to thrive.
For most gardeners, exploring native alternatives will likely provide better results and greater ecological benefits while requiring less fuss and specialized care.
