Blue star creeper - Isotoma fluviatilis (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Blue star creeper

Also known as: Laurentia

Blue star creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis) is a carpeting plant that brings a pleasing, soft appearance when used as a groundcover in garden beds, rockeries, or between paving stones. Blue star creeper tolerates foot traffic well, making it an excellent lawn substitute for those looking to add more color and texture to their landscape.

Scientific classification

Species

Blue star creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Purple

Fruit Color

Blue

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Blue star creeper

Distribution of Blue star creeper

Distribution Map

Blue star creeper originates from the temperate regions of Oceania and has since become a cultivated species in various parts of the world. While its primary natural habitat is within Oceania, its robustness and ornamental appeal have led to its introduction to gardens and landscapes beyond its indigenous range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Swamp

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Blue star creeper poses a moderate toxicity risk to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts of the plant can cause allergic reactions and severe symptoms like gastrointestinal distress, whether through ingestion or touch. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets showing unusual symptoms after exposure to blue star creeper.

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Quickly Identify Blue star creeper

Mat-forming growth habit close to the ground.

Star-shaped white-blue flowers with five delicate petals.

Compact obconical capsules with asymmetrical shape.

Tiny green leaves, oblong or elliptic, up to 0.5 inches long.

Subtle flowering stems spreading by rooting at nodes.

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Care Guide for Blue star creeper

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Blue star creeper prefers consistently moist and humid conditions, requiring weekly watering for optimal growth. Commonly used as ground cover, it benefits from natural rainfall, which enhances its vibrant blue flowers during the growing season.

Fertilize: For blue star creeper, use balanced nutrition fertilizers to enhance growth and flowering. Apply a diluted liquid formula biweekly during the growing season and reduce frequency in winter. Monitor the nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio, apply sparingly, and wear gloves to prevent burns from spillage on foliage.

Pruning: Blue star creeper displays dense growth and star-shaped blue flowers. Regular pruning in early to late spring is crucial for shape and health, encouraging denser growth and improving air circulation. Post-bloom pruning can enhance future flowering, ensuring vigorous growth and an appealing ground cover.

Propagation: Blue star creeper is a low-growing perennial with lush foliage and tiny blue flowers, thriving in moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight. Propagate by dividing the root ball into sections and transplanting them promptly for successful establishment and growth.

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