Leptinella potentillina

Leptinella potentillina is a low-growing perennial plant with persistent and deeply cut foliage, reminiscent of miniature ferns. It is olive-green taking on a lovely bronze hue in autumn and winter. In summer, it is covered with numerous small yellow-green heads, resembling small rounded buttons, giving the plant a precious appearance. It is an adorable little carpet to discover, which thrives in cool and moist soil, ideal for wet areas, in the crevices of walls, in partial shade.

Leptinella potentillina belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to southern Africa, where it is found in the New Zealand mountains. This plant forms a low, dense, and compact mat. Its mature height will not exceed 5 cm (2in), with a flowering height of 15 cm (6in), and a spread of 30 cm (12in) or more. The foliage, which is very soft, evergreen and dark olive green, consists of 4 cm (2in) long leaves, strongly pinnate, resembling tiny ferns, also reminiscent of yarrow leaves. They are arranged in basal rosettes and change colour with the seasons, evolving from bronze to green and purple from spring to winter. The flowering takes place in June-July, in the form of small rounded yellowish-green heads, about 10 mm (0in) in diameter. Flowers are followed by decorative fruits, similar to small brown pellets. The plant constantly spreads through stoloniferous stems.

Leptinella potentillina thrives in moist and humus-rich areas of the garden, in well-drained soil, where it will perfectly fulfill its role as groundcover. Although still relatively underused in our gardens, it is quite hardy. It has the same use as Ajuga reptans, with similar growth habits, at the base of small bushes, in north-facing slopes that never dry out, or near water sources. Azorella trifurcata is also similar and more drought-tolerant. Raoulia australis, equally fascinating, grows in the wild under the same conditions, requiring a lot of moisture, but is even more demanding in terms of winter humidity. This Leptinella can easily be planted at the base of bushes, in large well-watered containers, where it will thrive.