Botanical name:

Acaena caesiiglauca

Common name(s):

Glaucus bidibid, piripiri

About:

A low-growing ground cover characterised by its vibrant blue-grey foliage. The pinnately divided leaves can reach lengths of up to 5cm, while the upright flowering stems typically grow to about 15cm. These stems are adorned with round white flower heads that mature into brown, spiny seed pods. While it can withstand partial shade, the foliage achieves its most vivid colour when grown in dry, sunny environments.

Natural habitat:

This species inhabits montane and subalpine tussock-land.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Throughout New Zealand’s South Island on the eastern side of the Southern Alps.

Height: 12cm

Flowering:

Summer with a white coloured flower/s

Uses: Bee food, Riparian plantings & Ground cover.

How to grow: Propagation by seed, cuttings or division