Blue Star Creeper, or Isotoma fluviatilis, is a small, spreading groundcover plant native to Australia and New Zealand. It is a member of the Campanulaceae family and is known for its blue star-shaped flowers and low-growing habit. Blue Star Creeper only grows 1-3 inches tall but can spread up to 2 feet wide. There is also a White Star Creeper with white flowers.
Our Selection of Blue Star Creeper
At Martin Garden Center, we often have Blue Star Creeper year-round (although keep in mind that its foliage dies back in the winter). However, new crops are usually available through our vendor in Early March in 4″ containers. Blue Star Creeper will go in and out of availability, so we cannot keep it fully stocked. But, we usually see crops every 6 weeks become available again, so we aren’t long without it. White Star Creeper is more difficult to find, and we only see crops a couple of times each year.
Growing and Caring For Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper is well-suited for temperate and mild climates. It thrives in the SC Upstate as a herbaceous perennial meaning that it will die back in cold winters, often leaving a mat covering the ground, and then the new foliage will return in the spring.
Martin Garden Center recommends you plant Blue Star Creeper in an area that receives partial sun. While it can tolerate some shade, it tends to produce the most prolific blooms and maintain a compact growth habit when exposed to ample sunlight. In our area with hot and intense summers, providing the plant with some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch and stress.
The plant thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil enriched with organic matter. While Blue Star Creeper can tolerate some soil types, including sandy or loamy soils, it’s important to avoid heavy or poorly drained soils that can lead to root rot. Blue Star Creeper has moderate water needs and prefers consistently moist soil. Adequate watering, especially during the establishment phase, helps the plant develop a strong root system.
Blue Star Creeper is not particularly demanding when it comes to fertilization. However, applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring can provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. Regular pruning helps maintain a neat and compact appearance. Trim back any overgrowth and spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from becoming overly leggy.
Blue Star Creeper is relatively disease and pest-resistant, but it’s still a good practice to monitor for any signs of pests and address them if necessary. Aphids and snails are occasional pests that can be addressed with appropriate control measures.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of Blue Star Creeper are small, rounded, and a vibrant shade of green. Their dense growth pattern creates a lush carpet-like effect as they interweave and spread across the ground. These tiny leaves form a soft and inviting texture that beckons to be touched. Their compact nature contributes to the plant’s ability to fill gaps between larger plants.
The flowers of Blue Star Creeper add a burst of color and elegance to outdoor spaces. Delicate, star-shaped blossoms emerge in shades of pale blue to lavender, resembling a celestial constellation scattered across the ground. These miniature flowers gather in clusters above the foliage, creating a visually striking contrast against the lush green backdrop. The flowers also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Uses of Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper and the less common White Star Creeper is primarily used as a groundcover in gardens and landscapes to fill in gaps between larger plants, to fill gaps between stone pathways, or to create a low-growing border. The plant’s bright green leaves and blue flowers provide a striking contrast to other plants in the garden.
As an underplanting, Blue Star Creeper complements larger shrubs and trees, providing a vibrant and textured backdrop. Its ability to tolerate dappled shade makes it suitable for various garden settings. Blue Star Creeper can also be used in rock and container gardens, adding a pop of color and texture as an attractive edging plant, defining borders with its neat and compact growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blue Star Creeper Invasive?
Blue Star Creeper can become invasive if not weeded regularly or when not contained. However, the fine stems and roots are easily removed. As a groundcover, it is easily divided and cultivated.
Is Blue Star Creeper Poisonous to Dogs And Cats?
Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis) is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. According to available information, this ground cover plant is not known to contain any substances harmful to pets if ingested. However, individual pets may react differently to certain plants, and some animals may have allergies or sensitivities.
Is Blue Star Creeper a Perennial?
Yes, Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis) is a perennial plant. With proper care and suitable growing conditions, Blue Star Creeper can return year after year, adding beauty to gardens, pathways, and various landscaping applications.