One of the unique pleasures garden railroaders have that their other-scaled model railroading brethren don’t is landscaping with live plants. Live greenery is an integral part of most outdoor railways. It’s common practice to use plant species that extend the believability and realism of miniature railroads—to create the essence of a life-like railroad in a natural setting.
One plant that stands out for blending in is Scleranthus biflorus, commonly known as “Australian Astroturf”.
Better than moss
Though moss-like in appearance, this evergreen flourishes where mosses tend to wither. Australian Astroturf is part of the Caryophyllaceae family. It is a slow-growth perennial that is suitable for use in sunny areas as compared to mosses which need shady environments.
Garden railroaders in warmer climates know that modeling a pasture, grassy field or lawn with moss is likely a short-lived experiment. Australian Astroturf, also know as Canberra Grass and Two-flowered Knawel, lives in full to part sun and needs minimal water. Soil type doesn’t seem to be an issue, however it should provide good drainage.
As the plant matures it can be expected to spread in a mat-like formation to a size of 15 to 24 inches across while maintaining a height of 1 inch or so. It tends to fill in crevices and cling to rock formations, so maintenance and proper trimming is the key to developing this plant into the desired look. Once established, Australian Astroturf can be divided and replanted. It can also be produced from seed.
Australian Astroturf is a highly flexible option for many garden railroads. Consider it another tool in the ongoing challenge of realistic modeling in Mother Nature’s backyard.
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