Samolus repens
A creeping coastal herb of saltmarshes, estuaries and saline flats, forming mats of small leaves and dainty white flowers. Useful for coastal habitat plantings and salt-tolerant groundcover among our coastal plants.
| Scientific Name | Samolus repens |
|---|---|
| Height | 5-15 cm |
| Spread | Creeps extensively to form mats |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil | Saline, moist to wet conditions |
| Water Needs | High; tolerates waterlogging and salt water |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate to good |
| Salt Tolerance | Excellent - highly salt tolerant |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast spreading |
| Lifespan | Perennial with continuous growth |
Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) is naturally found in coastal saltmarshes and estuaries throughout New Zealand, thriving in areas with regular salt water inundation and tidal influence. It prefers temperate coastal climates with consistent moisture and can tolerate both mild frosts and salt spray. The species is well-adapted to fluctuating conditions between fresh and salt water environments.
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
Shore Pimpernel thrives in saline, waterlogged conditions that would be challenging for most plants. It requires consistently moist to wet soil and excellent salt tolerance.
This coastal specialist performs best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Open saltmarsh conditions with good light exposure promote optimal growth and flowering.
Exceptional water and salt tolerance make Shore Pimpernel ideal for challenging coastal conditions. It actually requires saline conditions to thrive optimally.
Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) is invaluable for challenging coastal and saline conditions where few other plants can survive. Its creeping habit makes it excellent for groundcover in specialized applications.
While not prominent in traditional Māori culture, Shore Pimpernel was part of the coastal ecosystem that provided resources and served as an indicator of healthy saltmarsh environments.
Ecologically, Shore Pimpernel plays a crucial role in saltmarsh ecosystems, providing ground cover, soil stabilization, and habitat for specialized coastal wildlife.
In spring, Shore Pimpernel begins active growth with new shoots and leaves emerging. This is an ideal time for propagation and establishing new colonies in suitable saline conditions.
Summer is the peak growing and flowering season for Shore Pimpernel. The small white flowers appear throughout the warmer months, and spreading is most vigorous during this period.
During autumn, Shore Pimpernel continues flowering and growth as conditions remain favorable. This is another good time for establishing new plantings before winter.
Winter sees reduced growth but Shore Pimpernel remains active in mild coastal conditions. The plant can tolerate light frosts and continues to provide valuable ground cover.
Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) is a low-growing coastal herb that requires minimal pruning. Management focuses on encouraging healthy spread and removing spent flowers.
Being a naturally low-growing species, Shore Pimpernel needs very little intervention. Focus on maintaining healthy growing conditions rather than extensive pruning.
The ideal time to plant Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) is during spring or early autumn when temperatures are moderate and soil moisture is adequate. These seasons allow establishment before extreme weather conditions.
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Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) is a creeping coastal herb of saltmarshes, estuaries, and saline flats, forming mats of small leaves and dainty white flowers. This resilient plant is highly adapted to harsh coastal conditions, including salt spray and periodic inundation, making it invaluable for coastal habitat plantings and as a salt-tolerant groundcover. Understanding its propagation methods is key to successfully establishing this unique native plant in appropriate environments.
Propagating Shore Pimpernel from seed is a viable method, though germination may be slow and erratic. Collect ripe seeds from mature seed pods in late summer or early autumn. Sow fresh seeds on a moist, sandy compost mix, covering them very lightly with fine sand or grit. Maintain consistent moisture in the seed tray and keep it in a warm, bright location, ideally with temperatures between 18-24°C. Germination can take several weeks to months, so patience is required. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, carefully transplant them into individual small pots, minimizing root disturbance. Grow them on in a sheltered environment with steady moisture before gradually hardening them off for planting out.
Division of established clumps is often a more reliable and faster method than seed propagation for Shore Pimpernel. This is best undertaken in spring or early autumn when the plant is actively growing but not under extreme heat or cold stress. Carefully dig up a mature clump and gently separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each division has a healthy portion of roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately into prepared moist soil that mimics its natural saline, well-drained habitat. Water thoroughly after replanting and maintain consistent moisture until new growth indicates successful establishment. New divisions typically establish relatively quickly, making this an efficient method for expanding plantings.
Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) is generally resilient in its natural coastal habitat but may face challenges when cultivated in different environments or when coastal conditions are altered.
This species is naturally adapted to challenging coastal conditions and is generally quite resilient when grown in appropriate environments.
Shore Pimpernel's tiny white flowers may seem insignificant, but they're perfectly adapted to attract small coastal pollinators. Plant it near other coastal natives to create a specialized salt-tolerant garden that supports unique pollinator communities. It's also excellent for rain gardens in coastal areas!
Explore other native plants that share similar coastal characteristics with Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens), offering insights into New Zealand's specialized salt-tolerant flora and opportunities for creating authentic coastal plant communities.
Found in coastal salt marshes, estuarine margins, and sandy shores.
Naturally, Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) occupies sites matching its tolerance to light and moisture, often alongside associated native flora.
Selliera forms extensive mats in coastal wetlands and estuarine margins.
Flowers and fruit support native fauna; foliage contributes to litter and nutrient cycling within its community.
Samolus repens is widespread but threatened by coastal development.
Where populations are pressured, eco‑sourced material and weed control improve long‑term outcomes for wild stands.
Selliera is excellent for coastal gardens, salt marshes, and erosion control.
Use Shore Pimpernel as a focal or matrix species; match site conditions and allow space for mature form.
Selliera is important for stabilizing coastal margins and providing habitat for shore birds. It tolerates periodic inundation and salt-laden winds, supporting invertebrates and nursery habitat for seedlings.
A creeping coastal herb of saltmarshes, estuaries and saline flats, forming mats of small leaves and dainty white flowers. Useful for coastal habitat plantings and salt-tolerant groundcover among our coastal plants.
Shore Pimpernel (Samolus repens) holds cultural importance in Aotearoa New Zealand through its roles in traditional knowledge and native ecosystems.
