Blue Star Creeper
Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis) is an evergreen perennial herb originating from New Zealand that puts out a carpet of star-shaped, sky-blue flowers when the days are long and the heat is mild. Blue Star Creeper typically reaches a height of no more than 6 inches, making it great for cascading over low walls or filling in between small stepping stones. It requires full sun to partial shade and can easily spread to cover large areas thanks to its vigorous growth habits. The flowers are not particularly fragrant, but they do make an attractive addition to flower beds and walkways.
Blue Star Creeper should be kept slightly on the dry side. The soil should be allowed to get slightly dry between waterings, however, this plant is tolerant of periods of drought. Watering should be adjusted for the amount of sun the plant is receiving, as more sun will require more water to maintain the leaves’ bright blue colouring. Too much water can result in root rot and should be avoided.
Blue Star Creeper does best in full sun to partial shade. If planted in full sun, it may require some protection during the hottest parts of the summer. It can tolerate the bright light of a south-facing window, but it may require more water in these conditions.
Blue Star Creeper does best in temperatures between 70–80°F (21–23°C). When temperatures get lower than 65°F (18°C) it should be protected in a sheltered spot outdoors or brought indoors for the winter months. In extreme temperatures, this plant may die back to the ground. Frost and snow should be avoided.
Blue Star Creeper is not particularly fussy when it comes to humidity levels. Average household humidity levels should be sufficient for it to thrive. If necessary, you can raise the humidity in its immediate vicinity with a humidifier or by misting the leaves regularly.
Blue Star Creeper prefers a well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0–7.0. If the soil is too basic and alkaline, you may need to add some peat moss to lower the pH level and improve drainage. The soil should also contain some organic matter for extra nutrients.
Blue Star Creeper does not require much fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer can be added to the soil once in the spring. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can burn the roots and foliage.
Blue Star Creeper is not particularly prone to pests. It can be affected by aphids and mealybugs, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Slugs and snails can be a problem, as they like to munch on the leaves of this plant. To keep them away, set up physical barriers around the plant, such as beer traps and copper rings, or use a Metaldehyde-based slug pellet.
Blue Star Creeper does not need to be repotted frequently. It can stay in its current pot for up to two years before needing to be repotted. When repotting is necessary, it should be done in early spring, using a pot with good drainage and a quality soil-based potting mix.
Blue Star Creeper is a sprawling evergreen and should be trimmed back in late winter to encourage more compact growth and keep it tidy. Any straggly growth should also be cut back as necessary. Pruning should be done as soon as the flowers are spent to encourage regeneration.
Blue Star Creeper does not require mulching, but adding a thin layer of organic mulch, like wood chip, around the base of the plant will help to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Blue Star Creeper can be easily propagated from cuttings. Cut just below a node and remove any leaves from the lower part of the cutting. Place the cutting in a jar of water and keep in indirect light until small roots form. When the roots are several inches long, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix and keep it well-watered until established.
Blue Star Creeper is a low-growing plant and does not require support. However, it can be grown in hanging baskets, where it can cascade over the sides.
Blue Star Creeper does not typically need a rest period and will keep blooming from late spring until late summer. However, it can be brought indoors for the winter months, where it can be given a rest period, and will regrow in the spring.
Blue Star Creeper is generally not toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. However, it is wise to keep pets away from the plant as they may ingest some of the foliage if given the opportunity.
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