Arizona Moss Black flagstone

Arizona Moss Black is flagstone with a story on its face. It was gathered from the surface, not cut from deep in a quarry, so it arrives weathered, with red and brown tones and patches of green lichen. That gives a path or patio an aged look from the first day. It is a natural fit for Spanish-style gardens, desert plantings and informal paths that wind between shrubs.

Surface stone with lichen

Because it is a surface stone, it carries green lichens. The red and brown sandstone shows through between the green.

Set the lichen side up to keep that look. A few pieces may have more growth than others, which adds variety.

Natural paths and Spanish gardens

It is often used for garden paths that curve through planting beds, and for Spanish-style gardens with terracotta pots, olive trees and warm stucco.

For layout ideas, see flagstone walkways and drought-tolerant landscaping.

Lay pieces a stride apart for stepping stones set in gravel, or close together for a full path. Leave some gaps for low groundcover so the path blends into the garden.

Mixing it with a few Moss Rock boulders along the path edge ties the look together.

Protecting the lichen

Lichen does best when left alone. Skip sealers and pressure washers, and use a soft set on sand and decomposed granite so the path stays natural.

Stone is sold by weight on pallets, so bring your path length and width and staff will quote by phone or at the yard.

Popular uses

• Natural garden paths
• Spanish-style courtyards
• Stepping stones in gravel
• Desert plantings
• Informal patios