Nertera balfouriana
Family: Rubiaceae
What it is like
Nertera balfouriana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.1
Where it is found
Damp and boggy ground from lowland to the sub-alpine zone, especially amongst sphagnum moss.
New Zealand.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Fruit - raw. The fruit is a berry about 1cm in diameter with a single seed.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Requires a light well-drained soil in semi-shade and shelter from cold winds. Plants are intolerant of excessive winter wet. A prostrate mat-forming plant that forms roots at the nodes of stems, it grows well in a rock garden in areas where frosts are light and short-lived. It succeeds outdoors only in the milder areas of Britain.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a shaded part of a cool greenhouse or cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a lightly shaded position in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Consider giving the plants some protection from the cold for their first winter outdoors. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 8-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: Semi-shade
Moisture: Moist