Isotoma fluviatilis
groundcover

Blue Star Creeper

Isotoma fluviatilis

$13.99
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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

3 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to high

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial groundcover

Native To

Australia, New Zealand

Toxicity

Skin irritant, mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A low-growing, mat-forming perennial that spreads by runners to create a dense carpet of tiny green leaves. It is covered in a profusion of small, star-shaped flowers for a long period. It is an excellent lawn substitute in small areas and is perfect for planting between stepping stones as it tolerates light foot traffic. The tiny, sky-blue flowers create a beautiful, delicate effect.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesCreates a lush, green carpet studded with thousands of tiny, star-shaped blue flowers from spring through summer. It provides a soft, fine-textured look that is ideal for filling gaps between pavers or as a small-scale lawn alternative.
Practical UsesIts ability to tolerate light foot traffic makes it highly functional for pathways and patios. It spreads quickly to fill in bare spots, helping to suppress weeds and reduce the need for mulch.
Ecological BenefitsThe dense mat provides a micro-habitat for beneficial insects and spiders. The flowers, though small, offer nectar to tiny native bees and other small pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotTrays
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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a site with moist, well-drained soil.
  2. Prepare the area by removing all weeds.
  3. Plant plugs 6-12 inches apart.
  4. Water thoroughly after planting.
  5. Keep consistently moist until established.
  6. Divide or trim edges as needed to control spread.

Pro Tip

Can be aggressive in ideal moist conditions; use edging to contain its spread into lawns or other garden beds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide regular water, especially in full sun.
  • Plant in a location where its spreading habit is welcome.
  • Use it between stepping stones where it can be appreciated up close.
  • Divide in spring if patches become thin.

Don't

  • Do not let it dry out, which causes brown patches.
  • Avoid planting near delicate, slow-growing alpines it might smother.
  • Be aware of its potential to spread aggressively into lawns.
  • Handle with gloves if you have sensitive skin.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Lush living mulch between paversFlowering lawn substituteSoft edging for ponds or paths

Companion Plants

Ajuga reptans Thymus serpyllum Mazus reptans Acaena inermis 'Purpurea' Dwarf conifers

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Star Creeper questions

What zones can Blue Star Creeper grow in?

Blue Star Creeper is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blue Star Creeper deer resistant?

Yes — Blue Star Creeper is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blue Star Creeper bloom?

Blue Star Creeper typically blooms in late spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blue Star Creeper need full sun?

Blue Star Creeper does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Blue Star Creeper with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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