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Native Ground Covers of New Zealand

Introduction

Overview

New Zealand native ground covers are diverse, hardy plants that form low-growing mats and carpets, perfect for stabilizing soil, covering difficult areas, and creating attractive underplantings. These resilient species include Acaena species (Bidibidi), Fuchsia procumbens (Creeping Fuchsia), and Leptinella species, many of which produce distinctive flowers, fruits, or seasonal colour changes. Native ground covers are invaluable for erosion control, wildlife habitat, and low-maintenance landscaping in challenging sites where traditional lawn struggles to thrive.

Willowherb (Epilobium nerteroides)

Epilobium nerteroides

Epilobium nerteroides

Epilobium nerteroides is a small, loosely matted willowherb endemic to New Zealand.

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Willowherb (Epilobium pernitens)

Epilobium pernitens

Epilobium pernitens

Epilobium pernitens is a compact, creeping willowherb endemic to New Zealand that forms dense patches up to 0.5 m across.

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Willowherb (Epilobium tasmanicum)

Epilobium tasmanicum

Epilobium tasmanicum

Epilobium tasmanicum is a small, mat-forming alpine willowherb that in New Zealand grows only in the mountains of the South Island, from Nelson to Southland.

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