About

Acaena microphylla 'Kupferteppich' is a robust, evergreen perennial that develops a dense mat over time. Its foliage consists of pinnate leaves with 9 to 15 rounded leaflets that display a bronze-green hue. During June and July, it produces reddish-brown, globular flowers, which give way to vibrant red burrs that persist into the autumn months.

About the genus

Acaena comprises evergreen perennials or subshrubs characterized by pinnate foliage featuring serrated leaflets. The small flowers are borne in compact, rounded clusters or spikes, which subsequently give rise to distinctive burr-like fruiting structures.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Matforming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
Up to 10 cm
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Toxicity
Pets (dogs) - Burrs can irritate skin

Care notes

Cultivation
May be a nuisance plant. Tolerates trampling/foot traffic so suitable for planting between paving stones. Grow in well-drained soil, in sun or partial shade
Pruning
Stems root freely-pull them out to restrict spread.
Propagation
Propagate by division in early spring. Seeds can be sown in an open cold frame or greenhouse in autumn or spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free