Botanical name:

Lobelia ionantha (Hypsela rivalis) 

Common name(s):

Hypsela

About:

A creeping plant, commonly found in damp areas near streams and lakes, that thrives in these wet environments. It features tiny, closely packed leaves and produces small starry flowers that can range in colour from beautiful blue to delicate white, blooming from spring through to autumn. This plant is very similar to Lobelia fatiscens, to which it was once considered to be identical, leading to some confusion among plant enthusiasts. It prefers a moist site, whether in sun or shade, and can be successfully grown in containers as well as cascading over walls, adding a charming touch to gardens. Propagation is usually achieved through division, making it relatively easy to share and cultivate in various settings.

Natural habitat: 

Lowland to subalpine. A species of the margins of lake, tarn and ephemeral wetlands, stream banks, and seepages in tussock grassland, where it grows with other short turf and small herb species.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Shade, Wetland, Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island from Marlborough, Canterbury, Otago, and Southland.

Height:

Flowering:  

October - April with a bluish white coloured flower/s  

Fruiting:

November - June

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Flowers& Containers 

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed and rooted pieces. An attractive ground cover for a damp sunny or semi-shaded site. Makes an excellent pot plant.

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