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Description
Isotoma Rivalis, also known as Blue Star Creeper, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial plant that is native to Australia and New Zealand. It belongs to the Campanulaceae family and is best known for its attractive blue flowers that bloom from spring to autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota ||————–|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Asterales || Family| Campanulaceae || Genus| Isotoma || Species| Isotoma Rivalis |
Appearance
Isotoma Rivalis is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of only 2-3 inches. It produces small, bright green leaves that are roughly 1/2 inch long and 1/4 inch wide. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stems and have a slightly hairy texture.The plant produces small, star-shaped flowers that are blue in color and measure approximately 1/2 inch in diameter. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center. They bloom in clusters from spring to autumn and are highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Isotoma Rivalis is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep it healthy and thriving:Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer.Soil: Isotoma Rivalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced in low light conditions.Hardiness Zones: Isotoma Rivalis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Isotoma Rivalis is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following problems:Slugs and snails: These pests may feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug bait or hand-pick the pests to control their population.Root rot: This fungal disease may occur if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Isotoma Rivalis is native to Australia and New Zealand but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including lawns, gardens, and rocky areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Isotoma Rivalis be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, Isotoma Rivalis is an excellent ground cover plant due to its low-growing habit and ability to spread quickly.Q: Can Isotoma Rivalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Isotoma Rivalis can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.Q: How often should Isotoma Rivalis be fertilized?
A: Isotoma Rivalis should be fertilized twice a year – in the spring and mid-summer – with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Q: How tall does Isotoma Rivalis grow?
A: Isotoma Rivalis typically grows to a height of only 2-3 inches.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Isotoma Rivalis:- Lobelia erinus- Erigeron karvinskianus- Pratia pedunculata- Sagina subulata
References
– “Isotoma Rivalis” by Missouri Botanical Garden- “Blue Star Creeper” by The Spruce- “Growing Isotoma Rivalis” by Gardening Know How
