Botanical name:

Samolus repens

Common name(s):

Sea primrose, shore pimpernel, water pimpernel, Maakoako

About:

S. repens is a flexible plant that grows in various forms, from upright to sprawling. It has both underground stems and spreading shoots. This evergreen perennial is somewhat hardy. Its thick, fleshy leaves are oval or spoon-shaped and dark green, enhancing its appearance. In summer, it produces clusters of white to pale pink flowers that add beauty. After blooming, these flowers turn into oval seed pods as part of its natural life cycle.

Natural habitat:

Grows in a wide range of soil types from sand to clay loams to clays. Found in salt flats, salt marshes and coastal flats. Prefers wet and damp localities.

Growing environment:

Sun, Wetland, Wind, Salt & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Kermadec & North Islands. Also Australia, New Caledonia, Central & South Chile + Easter & Norfolk Islands.

Height: 30cm

Flowering: 

September - March (April) with a small white or occasionally pink flowers.

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Grow in moderately fertile, preferably neutral to acid, moist or wet soil in full sun. Easily tolerates saline conditions.

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