Lobelia angulata
(Also known as Panakenake)
Overview
Lobelia angulata is a charming, low-growing New Zealand native groundcover valued for its lush green foliage and masses of tiny white star-like flowers. Perfect for softening garden edges, spilling over walls, underplanting shrubs, or filling shady, damp corners with fresh greenery.
Key Features
Foliage:
Small, rounded, bright green leaves forming a loose, spreading mat. Soft, fresh appearance year-round.
Flowers / Fruit:
Abundant tiny white flowers with a delicate yellow centre in spring and summer. Light, airy, and eye-catching when in full bloom.
Form & Habit:
Creeping, trailing, and lightly mounding. Spreads gently but stays tidy without becoming invasive.
Growth Rate:
Moderate to fast under ideal moisture conditions.
Cultural & Ecological Value:
A great native option for moist bush gardens; provides nectar for small invertebrates and supports damp-habitat biodiversity.
Mature Size
| Attribute |
Size |
| Height |
5–10 cm |
| Spread |
30–60+ cm (creeping groundcover) |
| Form |
Low, trailing, soft-mounding |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement |
Detail |
| Light |
Part shade to full shade; tolerates filtered sun |
| Water |
Prefers consistently moist soil; not drought-tolerant |
| Soil |
Moist, humus-rich soil; tolerates clay if not waterlogged |
| pH Range |
Slightly acidic to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance |
Hardy; tolerates mild to moderate frost |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
-
Groundcover for damp, shaded garden areas
-
Excellent underplanting for ferns and shrubs
-
Perfect along shady pathways or woodland gardens
-
Cascading plant for retaining walls and edges
-
Ideal in rain gardens and moisture-retentive pockets
Care & Maintenance
Pruning:
Light trimming to shape or control spread if required.
Watering:
Keep moist during summer; thrives with consistent moisture.
Feeding:
Light organic fertiliser in spring helps maintain lush growth.
Pests & Diseases:
Generally trouble-free; may sulk in drought or heavy waterlogging.
Additional Tips
Lobelia angulata thrives with mulch to retain soil moisture. Avoid placing in hot, dry, fully exposed sites unless irrigation is available.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
Also called Panakenake, this species naturally carpets lush, damp forest floors in NZ—making it a perfect way to bring a soft, native bush feel into urban gardens.
Why Choose Lobelia angulata?
Choose this plant for a delicate but highly effective native groundcover that brightens shaded gardens with fresh foliage and charming white flowers.
Pot Size: These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.