About
A mat-forming perennial with creeping stems that root at the nodes, and small, fern-like, divided green leaves often flushed with purple. Small, rounded yellowish-white flowers are produced on short stems just above the foliage in summer.
About the genus
Leptinella are annuals and creeping, tufted or mat-forming perennials, forming low carpets of finely-divided, often aromatic, fern-like leaves. Button-like flowerheads on short stalks appear from late spring to summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toNew Zealand
Care notes
CultivationThrives in well-drained soil that does not dry out; position in full sun in cooler areas, or in part shade in warmer areas. An unusual ground cover for containers, or small spaces like crevices between flagstones, but aggressive spreading means it has potential to become a nuisance in more open spaces
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division in spring; spreads naturally by rhizomes, so sections can easily be detached and replanted
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free