
Blue Star Creeper
Isotoma fluviatilis
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:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a site with moist, well-drained soil.
- Prepare the area by removing all weeds.
- Plant plugs 6-12 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Keep consistently moist until established.
- 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
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
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.



