100x Leptinella pyrethrifolia - $3.99 each
Common Names: Button Fern, Pyrethrum Leptinella
Family: Asteraceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Groundcover Overview:
Leptinella pyrethrifolia is a hardy, low-growing native groundcover prized for its finely divided, feathery foliage and ability to quickly form a dense mat. Perfect for rock gardens, between pavers, or as a soft edging plant, it brings lush green texture and subtle interest to native and ornamental plantings alike. It thrives in cool, open conditions and tolerates light foot traffic, making it a great choice for living pathways. Key Features:
Foliage: Delicate, fern-like leaves in deep green with a soft, ferny texture. Evergreen in most conditions, offering a fresh ground-hugging carpet throughout the year.
Flowers / Fruit: Tiny yellow-green flower buttons appear in late spring to summer. Flowers are subtle and sit just above the foliage.
Form & Habit: Spreading, ground-hugging mat. Forms a tight, creeping carpet by rhizomes.
Growth Rate: Fast-spreading once established
Cultural & Ecological Value: Excellent for erosion control on slopes or banks. Provides microhabitat for insects and contributes to soil stability. Mature Size: Attribute Size Height 2–5 cm Spread 30–50 cm (can continue spreading if not edged) Form Low, spreading carpet Ideal Growing Conditions: Requirement Detail Light Full sun to partial shade Water Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture but tolerates short dry spells once established Soil Well-drained soils; prefers loam or sandy loam pH Range Neutral to slightly acidic Frost Tolerance Hardy to approx. –8 °C Landscaping & Garden Uses:
Groundcover / Living Mulch: Excellent under shrubs or in open garden beds
Between Pavers or Stepping Stones: Tolerates occasional light foot traffic
Rock Gardens & Borders: Softens hard edges and adds texture
Native Planting Projects: Useful for restoration and low-growing native layers
Containers & Courtyards: Attractive as a filler around taller plants Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: No pruning required. Trim or edge if it begins to spread beyond desired areas.
Watering: Keep moist during dry spells—especially in summer. Will tolerate occasional dryness once fully established.
Feeding: Apply a light organic fertiliser in early spring if needed, but generally not required.
Pests & Diseases: Very few issues; may suffer in waterlogged soils or poor drainage.
Additional Tips: Great planted between stones or in gravel gardens. Not suited to heavy foot traffic areas, but perfect for light use walkways. Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
The name Leptinella pyrethrifolia refers to its foliage, which resembles that of the pyrethrum daisy (Tanacetum cinerariifolium), though it is actually a member of the daisy family itself and is completely non-toxic. Why Choose Leptinella pyrethrifolia?
If you need a soft, native, low-maintenance groundcover that performs beautifully between pavers, over banks, or around borders, Leptinella pyrethrifolia delivers. Its fine texture, resilience, and easy-care nature make it a smart and sustainable choice for any New Zealand garden. Pot Size:
These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.