punakuru
about.
Lobelia anceps | punakuru, New Zealand lobelia, shore lobelia
A low-growing, herbaceous perennial groundcover, Lobelia anceps typically reaches about 10 cm in height, spreading by prostrate branches that root at the nodes to form dense mats. It has short, narrow, oblong leaves and produces delicate sprays of flowers in shades of mauve, blue, or white, blooming prolifically from spring through to autumn.
This resilient plant is common in coastal regions and lowland areas across New Zealand, where it thrives in sunny, open sites. Unfussy about soil, it is particularly well-suited to damp or boggy ground and will readily re-sprout after winter dieback, making it an excellent choice for wet areas, pondsides, or as an easy-care groundcover.typical habitat.
coastal scrub
coastal forest
lowland forest
cliff faces
streamsides
lake margin
open rocky places
salt marshes
drainage.
wet
moist
well drained
free draining
dry
sun.
full sun
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 10cm
width | 30cm
pollinators calendar.
flowering | August - May
fruiting | October - August
did you know?
Although widespread in New Zealand, Lobelia anceps is also native to southern Africa and Australia and has naturalised in parts of Brazil. It was first collected in New Zealand by Joseph Banks during Captain Cook’s voyage.