|
|
|
Back to NZ Native Plants
More Native Plant Profiles
Mat Forming and Creeping Plants
There are a number of attractive and distinctive natives that are mat forming plants, from the famous 'vegetable sheep' or raoulia to the, perhaps, infamous bidibid or Acaena. Many of these plants are useful for covering dry plants, others are very hardy and suited to tough climates, and others again are coastal plants that thrive in exposed salt-wind plagued positions.
Acaena caesiiglauca
Piripiri, Bidibid
A creeping, mat forming plant with fine grey glaucous foliage. The brown 'Bidibid' seed heads or burrs are showier than the small, insignificant flowers and contrast effectively with the silvery leaves.
Can spread to cover a largish area but is easily cut back. Avoid planting near paths or the burr will be carried away on passers-by socks, an attribute that makes this plant loathed by sheep farmers!
Cultivation Grows in most soils and even in exposed places, tolerating dry conditions. Prefers good drainage and some summer moisture. If desired, remove seeds heads as they ripen to prevent spreading.
Propagation Cuttings, division, Seed
Acaena inermis 'Purpurea'
A purple leaved form of grey-foliaged Acaena inermis that is very useful for contrast. The familiar burrs are without the spiky 'barbs' that attach themselves to clothing and sheep's wool. Forming a dense mat and this is an attractive form of Bidibid for the garden.
Cultivation Most soils, water until established.
Propagation Division
| |
|
Raoulia australis
Tightly packed plants that form 'cushions' that resembles sheep when viewed from a distance. Raoulia australis is from rocky, dry areas of the South Island, In summer it is dotted with tiny yellow flowers. Mainly seen in alpine zones but can be found lower in very dry areas.
Cultivation Well drained, shingle-y soils are that resemble the schist slopes of their native home and a sunny position. Not successful in humid climates.
Propagation Division, Seed
Sclernathus biflorus
Sclernathus biflorus hails from coastal North Island. Dense tiny leaves form wonderful emerald green mounds that resemble moss, eventually becoming quite large. In harsh or dry conditions the foliage can become more yellow or orange-tinged, as here. The flowers are tiny and insignificant. Easy to grow in the garden and widely available.
Cultivation Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny site, avoid high traffic areas where the plant can be damaged.
Propagation Division
Mazus radicans
A creeping mat-forming plant with oval green leaves and white flowers, touched with blue, appear in summer. The seeds are held above the plant and remain, purple and fascinating, for some time. A plant of streamsides it grows in cool, damp shady places where it will spread to provide invaluable groundcover. Widely available.
Cultivation Moist soils and shade. In cooler climates tolerates some sun.
Propagation Division, Seed
Protect Our Native Plants
Many of our native plants are under threat in the wild as their habitats suffer from grazing by pests, such as rabbits and opossums, and farm animals. Other habitats are reduced by urban sprawl and the spread of holiday baches.
To safeguard our plants buy native plants from reputable nurseries. Do Not Collect from the Wild. Always have a permit or permission to take seed. |
| | |
| |
