Lobelia angulata

panakenake, alpine pratia, trailing pratia

Fast growing, New Zealand native ground cover. Small (1 cm wide) flowers from spring to autumn, followed by purplish red berries. Tiny, nearly circular, evergreen leaves with toothed margins.

Lobelia angulata used to be known as Pratia angulata. It is an endemic New Zealand species, occurring naturally in quite damp areas of the North island and the South Island, as well as Stewart Island.

Grows well in a sunny or partially shaded position. Tolerates wind and dry to moderately wet conditions. Frost-hardy (zones 7-9).

In full sun, Lobelia angulata forms a tight mat, whereas in the shade the plant can become quite stretched. If it is planted in a good spot, it grows very fast. In my design-work, I usually recommend this ground cover in more or less confined spaces where it cannot easily invade lawns or other areas.