Botanical name:

Nertera depressa

Common name(s):

Nertera, bead plant, fruiting duckweed

About:

This is the most common species of its kind, being frequently found in the damp coastal regions and lowland areas throughout New Zealand. It forms dense mats of very small leaves, and the tiny, delicate flowers are followed in the autumn and winter months by bright orange to red berries that add a burst of colour to the landscape. It grows best in consistently moist soil, whether in full sun or partial shade. Propagation of this species is easiest and most effective when carried out by division.

Natural habitat:

Damp coastal and lowland areas

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wetland & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South, Stewart, Chatham and the Subantarctic Islands. Also in Australia and the south Pacific and South America

Height: 10cm

Flowering:

Summer with a yellow to green coloured flowers

Fruiting:

Autumn/Winter with a red to orange fruit

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Ground cover & Containers.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed or division. Requires a light well-drained soil in semi-shade and shelter from cold winds

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.