Botanical name:

Phyllachne colensoi

Common name(s):

About:

An alpine plant species that can be found thriving in the rugged terrains of the Central Plateau and extending southward, typically growing at elevations ranging from 900 to 1900m. This remarkable plant forms small, dense cushions comprised of dark green leaves, and during the summer months, it is adorned with numerous delicate white flowers. It is an ideal choice for the dedicated alpine enthusiast who appreciates its unique beauty. To propagate this lovely plant, one can successfully utilise methods such as seed sowing or division of the root clumps.

Natural habitat:

Phyllachne colensoi is frequently the dominant vegetation in upland alpine bog habitats

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Shade & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Height: 10cm

Flowering: 

November – February with a violet-purple to white coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

January – April

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Alpine plantings

How to grow:

Difficult. Can be grown from fresh seed or division but is best left to an alpine specialist.

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