Month: October 2024

Pratia angulata, also known as Panakenake, is a native ground cover plant which grows as a low-growing, mat-forming perennial that thrives in a variety of conditions.

Appearance: It has small, rounded green leaves about 1-2 cm in diameter and produces masses of small white flowers from spring to autumn. These flowers are followed by red-purple berries in autumn

Growth: It typically grows to about 5-10 cm tall and can spread up to 2 meters wide. The creeping stems help it form a dense mat, making it ideal for ground cover.

Habitat: Pratia angulata is endemic to New Zealand and can be found in damp, sheltered areas up to 1,500 meters.
It prefers partial to full sun and well-draining soil.

Care: It’s relatively low-maintenance and hardy. Regular watering, especially during dry periods, and occasional trimming to control growth are recommended

Uses: This versatile plant is great for filling gaps between taller plants, adding color and texture to rock gardens, or creating a dense carpet of foliage in areas that receive full sun to partial shade.
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Creating a lush and vibrant retaining wall or stone wall in your garden can be both beautiful and functional. Here are some excellent plant choices, including native New Zealand plants, that thrive in these conditions:

1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus praecox)

Creeping Thyme is a low-growing perennial that forms a dense mat of tiny leaves, spreading quickly over and down retaining walls. It thrives in full sun and is easy to grow, making it a popular choice for adding a splash of color with its tiny flowers. Suits the northern part of New Zealand. We often have thyme for sale.

2. Trailing Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)

Known for its stunning display of tiny star-shaped flowers, Trailing Lobelia is perfect for covering retaining walls. It loves warmth and can be grown as an annual in cooler climates. A native form of lobelia ia available, it comes in various forms with white and blue flowers Pratia angulata. pānakenake

3. Prostrate Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus ‘Prostratus’)

This aromatic plant is ideal for Mediterranean-style gardens. It has dark-green leaves and soft-blue flowers that attract pollinators. Prostrate Rosemary thrives in well-drained soil and full sun and can often be seen hanging down retaining walls around Aucklands..

4. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)

Nasturtiums are easy to grow and produce a cascade of bold orange flowers from midsummer into fall. They are perfect for adding vibrant color to your garden walls.

5. Pohuehue (Muehlenbeckia complexa)

This native vine is perfect for covering walls with its dense, wiry stems and small, dark green leaves. It is hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions. It is a vigourous plant so in small gardens with a warm climate and fertile soil it needs pruning to maintain its size. Often used in coastal areas as a ground cover. Will trail down walls quite happily. Comes in a few different species and forms.

6. New Zealand Iris (Libertia ixioides)

This plant features striking yellow or white flowers and sword-like leaves. It is well-suited to rock gardens and retaining walls, adding both texture and color. Other attractive libertia are available including the orange coloured libertia perigrinans.

By incorporating these plants, you can transform your retaining or stone wall into a stunning garden feature that adds color, texture, and interest to your outdoor space. Happy gardening!