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.
Characteristics of Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper is a perennial plant that forms a dense mat of tiny, bright green leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and grow in pairs along the stem. The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers in shades of blue and lavender. The flowers bloom from spring to summer and attract bees and other pollinators. Blue Star Creeper only grows 1-3 inches tall but can spread up to 2 feet wide.
Growing Conditions for Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper is an easy-to-grow plant ideal for groundcovers, rock gardens, and borders. It prefers full sun to partial shade and grows best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. The plant is not tolerant of dry conditions and requires regular watering. Blue Star Creeper works best in USDA zones 6-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Uses of Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper is primarily used as a groundcover in gardens and landscapes to fill in gaps between larger plants 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. Blue Star Creeper is also used in container gardens and can be grown indoors as a houseplant.
In addition, Blue Star Creeper has some medicinal properties. The plant contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. The leaves can be crushed and applied to wounds and cuts to help prevent infection and promote healing.