Contents
Description
Isotoma Hypocrateriformis, commonly known as the Star Creeper, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to New Zealand and is widely cultivated in many other parts of the world. It is a popular ground cover plant that grows well in rock gardens, between paving stones, and as a border plant. The plant produces numerous small, star-shaped, pale blue flowers with yellow centers. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and butterflies. The plant has a trailing growth habit and can spread up to 2 feet wide, making it an excellent ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Campanulales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Isotoma |
Appearance
Isotoma Hypocrateriformis is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of only 3 inches. The plant has a trailing growth habit and can spread up to 2 feet wide. The leaves of the plant are small, oval-shaped, and dark green. The plant produces numerous small, star-shaped, pale blue flowers with yellow centers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers measure about 0.5 inches in diameter and are borne on short stalks.
Care Guide
Isotoma Hypocrateriformis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant twice a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in spring and autumn.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in full shade, but the flowering may be reduced.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Isotoma Hypocrateriformis is generally free from pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that may affect the plant:
Slugs and Snails: These pests can damage the leaves of the plant. Use slug and snail traps or repellents to control them.
Mildew: This fungal disease can affect the plant during humid weather. Use a fungicide to treat the affected plant parts.
Habitat
Isotoma Hypocrateriformis is native to New Zealand and is widely cultivated in many other parts of the world. It grows well in rock gardens, between paving stones, and as a border plant. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 10.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Isotoma Hypocrateriformis grow in full shade?
A. Yes, the plant can grow in full shade, but the flowering may be reduced.
Q. How often should I fertilize Isotoma Hypocrateriformis?
A. Fertilize the plant twice a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in spring and autumn.
Q. What is the ideal soil for Isotoma Hypocrateriformis?
A. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q. What is the hardiness zone of Isotoma Hypocrateriformis?
A. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 10.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Isotoma Hypocrateriformis:
- Isotoma fluviatilis
- Isotoma axillaris
- Isotoma petraea
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/isotoma/star-creeper-plant.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10690/Isotoma-hypocrateriformis/Details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/isotoma-star-creepers
