Isotoma Fluviatilis

Description

Isotoma Fluviatilis, commonly known as Blue Star Creeper, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to Australia and New Zealand, but it is also widely cultivated in many other countries due to its attractive appearance and ease of care. The plant forms a dense mat of small, bright green leaves and produces delicate, star-shaped blue flowers that bloom profusely from spring to fall, attracting bees and butterflies to the garden.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Isotoma Fluviatilis is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 2-3 inches and spreads to form a dense mat of up to 2 feet wide. Its small, bright green leaves are oval-shaped and slightly serrated, measuring about 0.5 inches long and 0.25 inches wide. The plant produces numerous delicate, star-shaped blue flowers that are about 0.5 inches in diameter and have five petals. The flowers bloom profusely from spring to fall, providing a beautiful splash of color to the garden.

Care Guide

Water

Isotoma Fluviatilis prefers consistently moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months, to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause root rot or stress the plant.

Fertilization

Fertilize Isotoma Fluviatilis once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can cause excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.

Soil

Isotoma Fluviatilis prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clayey, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.

Sunlight

Isotoma Fluviatilis prefers partial to full sun, but it can also tolerate some shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to protect it from intense sunlight and heat.

Hardiness Zones

Isotoma Fluviatilis is hardy in USDA zones 6-10. It can tolerate mild frost and temperatures as low as 20°F, but it may suffer damage or die back in harsh winters.

Common Pests & Diseases

Isotoma Fluviatilis is generally pest and disease resistant, but it may occasionally suffer from some issues such as:

• Slugs and snails: These pests may feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing damage and reducing its aesthetic appeal. Use organic slug and snail baits or traps to control the infestation.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease may appear as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to wilt and die. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant. Use a fungicide if necessary.

Habitat

Isotoma Fluviatilis is native to the wetlands and streambanks of Australia and New Zealand, where it grows in moist, well-draining soil in partial to full sun. It is commonly used as a ground cover in gardens, landscapes, and container plantings, where it adds a splash of color and texture to the design.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Isotoma Fluviatilis deer resistant?
A: Yes, Isotoma Fluviatilis is deer resistant, meaning that deer are unlikely to eat it.Q: Can I grow Isotoma Fluviatilis in a container?
A: Yes, Isotoma Fluviatilis is well-suited for container plantings, as long as the pot has good drainage and the soil is kept moist.Q: How often should I prune Isotoma Fluviatilis?
A: Isotoma Fluviatilis does not require regular pruning, but you can trim it back lightly after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.Q: Can I propagate Isotoma Fluviatilis from cuttings?
A: Yes, Isotoma Fluviatilis is easy to propagate from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Simply cut a 2-3 inch stem from the plant, remove the lower leaves, and plant it in moist potting soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cutting roots and starts to grow.

Related Plants

Here are some other plants that are related to Isotoma Fluviatilis:

• Campanula carpatica
• Campanula lactiflora
• Campanula poscharskyana
• Platycodon grandiflorus
• Lobelia erinus

References

• “Isotoma Fluviatilis: Blue Star Creeper.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287343
• “Isotoma Fluviatilis (Blue Star Creeper).” Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/isotoma-fluviatilis.html
• “Isotoma Fluviatilis.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/isotoma-fluviatilis-blue-star-creeper