Key New Zealand Native Ground Covers and Where They Thrive Best

New Zealand’s diverse landscape has given rise to a stunning array of native ground cover plants that not only beautify garden spaces but also support local biodiversity. From lush, mossy mats to hardy, sun-loving creepers, these ground covers are ideal for creating low-maintenance, eco-friendly garden beds and slopes. Let’s explore some of the standout native ground covers and their preferred growing conditions.

1. Acaena inermis 'Purpurea' (Purple Bidibid)

Appearance: A low-growing, creeping ground cover with feathery, purple-toned foliage and small, burr-like seed heads.
Ideal Environment:

• Full sun to partial shade
• Free-draining soils
• Tolerates dry conditions once established
• Great for rock gardens, paths, and banks

Note: This species is not as spiky as some other Acaena varieties, making it more garden-friendly.

2. Leptinella dioica (Dwarf Button Fern)

Appearance: A compact, mat-forming ground cover with delicate, fern-like leaves and tiny yellow-green button flowers.
Ideal Environment:

• Moist, well-drained soil
• Full sun to part shade
• Coastal and alpine adaptability
• Perfect for borders, stepping stones, or between pavers

3. Coprosma acerosa (Sand Coprosma)

Appearance: A low, spreading shrub with golden togreen tangled stems and tiny leaves.
Ideal Environment:

• Coastal, sandy, and wind-exposed areas
• Full sun
• Excellent for erosion control
• Salt-tolerant and great for dune gardens

4. Selliera radicans (Remuremu)

Appearance: A creeping plant with glossy green leaves and small, fan-shaped white flowers in summer.
Ideal Environment:

• Damp or boggy soils
• Full sun to partial shade
• Excellent for around ponds, wetland areas, or moist lawn alternatives
• Also tolerates coastal conditions well

5. Raoulia hookerii (celadon mat daisy)

Appearance: Forms dense, silver-grey mats that hug the ground, resembling a cushion, yellow flowers.
Ideal Environment:

• Dry, rocky soils
• Full sun
• Alpine or dry garden settings
• Ideal for high-drainage areas or rockeries

6. Lobelia angulata also know as Pratia angulata (Pānakenake,)

Appearance: A fast-spreading ground cover with small round leaves and delicate starry white flowers in spring and summer.
Ideal Environment:

• Moist, well-drained soils
• Part shade to full sun
• Useful in woodland gardens or beneath shrubs
• Attracts native bees and insects

Tips for Growing Native Ground Covers

• Start with weed-free soil: Many natives are slow starters, so reducing     competition helps them establish.
• Mulch with care: Use organic mulch that mimics the native forest floor—such as leaf litter or fine bark.
• Watering: While most natives adapt to local conditions, regular watering during establishment (first 6–12 months) ensures success.
• Group by microclimate: Match plants to their natural environments—alpine, coastal, forested, or wetland—to reduce maintenance and maximise health.

Incorporating New Zealand native ground covers not only enhances your garden’s beauty but also supports native wildlife and soil health. Whether you're looking to fill a shaded woodland corner, stabilise aslope, or create a soft, green carpet between stepping stones, there’s a native ground cover to suit every environment.

Got a particular spot in your garden you're trying to fill, we have all these options and much more. Pop into the nursery and let us know the conditions of your soil type and we will recommend the best native ground covers for it!

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