Acaena inermis 'Purpurea' (Purple sheep's burr, Purple goose leaf)

Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of Quansett Nurseries

(Based on 1 user review)

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Botanical Name: Acaena inermis 'Purpurea' ah-SEE-nah ih-NER-mis Common Name: Purple sheep's burr, Purple goose leaf Genus: Acaena

This New Zealand native subshrub has 3-inch-wide scalloped leaves and little purple-brown to pale olive leaflets. Its rhizomatous roots spread in a mat to support this plant's wonderful ground-cover form. In early summer, 3/4-inch-wide flowers appear on short stems, and brownish green sepals and white anthers contrast with the dark leaves. The rhizomatous roots of this plant spread slowly into a mat, forming a nice ground cover. Prune every five years or so for a neat appearance; little other care is required.
Noteworthy characteristics: Scalloped, purple leaves. Low maintenance.
Care: Provide full sun and well-drained, sandy soil.
Propagation: Separate rooted stems in early spring or fall, or take cuttings in late spring.
Problems: Powdery mildew, rust.

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posted by Alethea222
7/2/2010
Region: Northeast
Zone: 6

This was first introduced to my yard in a 3 inch pot, purchased from young's nursery in Connecticut, transplanted in mid to late spring . In about 3 weeks I had a plant three times that size. In six weeks it was 17 inches across. I could fill an entire yard with this lovely foliage and be completely happy. It is pleasant to look at & completely hardy, slow growing so its easy to maintain but not so slow you'll forget its there. it will tolerate some damage as well. Im surprised I have not seen this sold as a "stepables" plant. I have heavy clay soil but amended with some gypsum, rock phosphate and peat I think the clay is heavily dominant and this little wonder plant remains healthy and thriving. I do not know how it will over winter here in new haven ct I plan to bring a small portion inside just incase it dies back completely. all told this is a great surprise to me in my garden. I feel very lucky to have found this plant.

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Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of Quansett Nurseries

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