About
Acaena ovina is a species in the genus Acaena (family Rosaceae) within a group of mainly creeping, herbaceous perennials and subshrubs. Members of the genus typically produce tight, globose flower heads with no petals and often form dense seed balls. Acaena ovina flowers from June to August. Leaves in Acaena are usually pinnate with multiple leaflets.
About the genus
Acaena is a genus of about 60 species of mainly evergreen, creeping herbaceous perennial plants and subshrubs in the family Rosaceae, native mainly to the Southern Hemisphere, notably New Zealand, Australia and South America, but with a few species extending into the Northern Hemisphere, north to Hawaii and California.
Wikipedia contributors, "Acaena", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Acaena
In the garden
Acaena ovina sits within the genus Acaena in the rose family, a group that comprises roughly sixty species of mainly evergreen, creeping herbaceous perennials and subshrubs. The genus is native predominantly to the Southern Hemisphere, notably New Zealand, Australia and South America, though a few species extend into the Northern Hemisphere. Flowering in Acaena ovina occurs from June to August; across the genus the blooms are produced in compact, spherical heads and lack obvious petals, while the fruit often forms a dense ball of seeds. When working with Acaena species in cultivation, take account of their low, spreading habit and the tendency in many species for seedheads to cling to fur or fabric. Sit plants where seed dispersal by animals or people is unlikely to be a nuisance. Because species within the genus vary in their exact tolerance and behaviour, select material and a planting spot that match the specific variety you have and consult local sources for hardiness and soil guidance. Acaena ovina suits situations where a low-lying, flowering perennial is wanted and occasional monitoring of summer seedheads is acceptable; remove or deadhead spent flower balls after August if you want to limit unwanted spread or seed attachment to pets and clothing.