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Perennial

Blue Star Creeper

Isotoma fluviatilis (syn. Laurentia fluviatilis)

Swamp IsotomeLaurentiaMatted PratiaTrailing Pratia

Blue Star Creeper is an evergreen ground cover with delicate star-shaped blue flowers. It forms dense mats ideal for pathways, between stepping stones, and as a lawn alternative.

Plant Family

Campanulaceae (Bellflower family)

Blooming

Spring through summer (March-September), with heaviest bloom in late spring

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Blue Star Creeper ground cover with delicate star-shaped flowers
Blue Star Creeper ground cover with delicate star-shaped flowers

Symbolism & Meanings

Key Meanings

Resilience
Adaptability
Cheerfulness
Perseverance
Natural beauty

Perfect For

Garden giftsNew home celebrationsEco friendly landscaping projectsGround cover installations

Color Meanings

Blue:Tranquility, peace, and calm
White:Purity and simplicity

Similar flowers: centranthuss and erigerons also share similar meanings.

Cultural Significance

Native to Australian wetlands and riparian zones, Blue Star Creeper represents the adaptable beauty of Australian native flora. Its ability to thrive in challenging conditions while creating carpet-like beauty symbolizes resilience and growth. Popular in cottage gardens and naturalistic landscapes worldwide.
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Botanical Information

Physical Characteristics

Flower Size: 0.25-0.375 inches diameter (6-10 mm), small star-shaped blooms
Plant Size: 2-3 inches tall (5-7.5 cm) spreading to 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
Flower Shape: Star-shaped with five symmetrical petals

Natural Habitat

Native to: Australia (New South Wales, Victoria), New Zealand
Habitat: Moist areas along stream margins, creek banks, wet depressions, and granite outcrops; widely cultivated as ground cover
Climate: Temperate, Mediterranean

Growing Guide

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade; prefers some afternoon shade in hot climates

Water

Consistent moisture preferred, especially during establishment; moderately drought-tolerant once established but performs best with regular water

Soil

Well-drained, Moist, Sandy, Loamy, Can tolerate gravelly soil

Expert Growing Tips

1

Space plants 6-12 inches apart for quick coverage

2

Tolerates moderate foot traffic, making it ideal for pathways

3

Can spread vigorously in ideal conditions; use deep edging to contain

4

Shear back to 1 inch in autumn to keep tidy through winter

5

Easily propagated by division in spring or fall

6

Benefits from moisture in full sun or hot weather

7

Provides year-round evergreen coverage in warmer zones

Uses & Benefits

Ornamental Uses

  • Ground cover between stepping stones and pavers
  • Lawn alternative for low-traffic areas
  • Edging for borders and pathways
  • Underplanting beneath trees and shrubs
  • Rock gardens and alpine plantings
  • Fairy gardens and container combinations
  • Erosion control on slopes and banks

Traditional Uses

  • Historically used by indigenous Australians: mashed bulbs and leaves applied as body rub for aches and pains
  • Vapors from crushed leaves inhaled for headache relief
  • Note: Plant contains slightly toxic sap that can cause digestive upset if ingested

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Star Creeper

is blue star creeper invasive?

Blue Star Creeper can spread vigorously in ideal conditions but is not typically considered invasive. It can be easily contained with deep landscape edging and controlled through regular maintenance.

can you walk on blue star creeper?

Yes, Blue Star Creeper tolerates moderate foot traffic, making it an excellent choice for pathways and between stepping stones. However, it's not suitable for heavy, constant traffic like traditional lawns.

does blue star creeper stay green in winter?

Blue Star Creeper is evergreen in zones 7-9 and remains green year-round. In colder zones (5-6), it may go dormant or appear less vibrant during winter months.

how fast does blue star creeper spread?

Blue Star Creeper is a fast-growing ground cover that can spread up to 18 inches within a year under optimal conditions of consistent moisture and partial shade.

Available Colors

Blue
White
Pale Blue
Periwinkle

Quick Facts

Type:perennial
Family:Campanulaceae (Bellflower family)
Native to:Australia (New South Wales, Victoria)
Blooms:Spring through summer (March-September), with heaviest bloom in late spring

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