puatea

Anaphalioides trinervis | puatea, cudweed

 

This perennial herb has a low-growing habit and produces an abundance of small, white, straw-flower-like blossoms on tall stems. In the wild, it forms a striking white carpet along the sides of streams and waterfalls. For the garden, this fast-growing plant is perfect for a wet or moist location with dappled light and plenty of nutrients. It will not tolerate dry conditions, so consider planting it in a pot to ensure consistent moisture. This plant is a great way to add a touch of tropical colour and will easily self-seed in a moist environment.

streamsides

wetland

bog margin

waterfalls

wet

moist

full sun

partial shade

height | 20cm

width | 60cm

flowering | December - February

Māori traditionally pressed the leaves of this plant to extract a juice that was then applied to treat bruises.