Botanical name:

Disphyma papillatum

Common name(s):

Chatham Island ice plant

About:

D. papillatum is a strikingly miniature small-leaved species of Disphyma that can be found naturally occurring on the Chatham Islands. This unique plant is known for its distinctive characteristics and plays a role in the local ecosystem.

Natural habitat:

Abundant on coastal rocks, cliffs and gravels, often in very exposed, inhospitable sites.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Salt, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Chatham Islands, Rekohu (Chatham), Rangiuaria (Pitt), Rangatira (South East), Mangere, Little Mangere, Rabbit, Castle, Forty Fours, Star Keys, Sisters and Western Reef

Height: 10cm

Flowering: July - May with a pinkish white coloured flower/s

Fruiting: Throughout the year

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Pioneer Plantings, Flowers & Ground cover

How to grow:

Easy from rooted pieces and fresh seed. Does best in full sun, within a damp, well drained and fertile soil

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though