5x Leptinella pyrethrifolia - $29.95

Leptinella pyrethrifolia

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:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

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.