Leptinella potentillina (Verdigris Brass Buttons)

Leptinella potentillina (Verdigris Brass Buttons) is a charming alternative to conventional lawn options, offering environmental benefits and visual appeal with minimal upkeep, ideal for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet beautiful landscape solution.

Leptinella potentillina – Verdigris Brass Buttons: An In-depth Look

Leptinella potentillina, commonly known as Verdigris Brass Buttons or New Zealand Brass Buttons, is a lesser-known but equally captivating ground cover, valued for its ornamental features and ease of care. It is characterized by its small, feathery, fern-like foliage that closely resembles the leaves of potentilla, hence its name. The plant forms a tight mat that spreads across the ground, presenting a soft, green carpet-like appearance.

Native: This species is native to New Zealand, thriving in its temperate climate across various terrains from coastal areas to alpine meadows. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and sunflowers.

Plant Type and Habit: It is a perennial ground cover known for its fast-spreading habit. Leptinella potentillina spreads via runners, making it effective at filling in spaces in garden beds and paths. It is generally considered evergreen in mild climates. In regions with harsher winters, it may behave more as a deciduous plant, dying back in colder weather and re-emerging in the spring.

Size: Verdigris Brass Buttons remains quite low to the ground, typically growing only about 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) tall but can spread outwards to approximately 12-18 inches (30-45 cm).

Flowers: The flowers are minuscule, button-like, and usually yellow or greenish-yellow, blending in with the foliage rather than standing out. Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer, depending on the local climate conditions. Like many in its genus, it produces small, inconspicuous fruits that carry seeds, allowing for natural propagation.

Foliage: The foliage of Verdigris Brass Buttons is the main draw, with its delicate, fern-like purplish green leaves providing a dense, textured cover that feels soft underfoot.

Hardiness: Brass Buttons is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates, from temperate to sub-alpine regions.

Uses: Ideal for use as a ground cover in gardens, rockeries, and along borders or paths. Its ability to tolerate foot traffic makes it a practical replacement for traditional lawns in low-use areas.

Toxicity: Verdigris Brass Buttons is not known to be toxic to humans or pets, making it a safe choice for use in home gardens and public spaces.

Invasiveness: While it is a vigorous spreader, it is not generally considered invasive outside its native range. In garden settings, its growth can be easily managed by physical barriers or regular edging.

Benefits: In addition to its ornamental value, Verdigris Brass Buttons helps prevent soil erosion, suppresses weed growth due to its dense matting habit, and requires less maintenance and mowing than traditional lawns.

Verdigris Brass Buttons: How to Grow and Care

Verdigris Brass Buttons is a fantastic choice for adding texture and color to your garden. Here’s how to grow and care for this unique plant:

Light: Verdigris Brass Buttons thrive in full sun to partial shade. They perform best with at least four hours of sunlight a day, which enhances the color of the foliage.

Soil: Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. It does well in slightly acidic to neutral pH conditions.

Water: Requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so good drainage is essential.

Temperature: Generally hardy in USDA zones 4-9. In colder zones, provide a layer of mulch to protect the roots over winter.

Fertilizer: Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage vigorous growth throughout the season. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can promote lush foliage at the expense of forming a dense mat.

Pruning: Little pruning is needed. Remove any dead or damaged foliage in early spring to tidy up the plant and promote new growth.

Propagation: Easily propagated by division in early spring or fall. Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain plant vigor and spread them in desired areas.

Brass Buttons: Common Problems

Brass Buttons, although hardy and low-maintenance, can sometimes face a few common problems, particularly in non-ideal conditions. Here’s how to identify and address these issues:

Overwatering

• Symptoms: Soggy soil, root rot, and yellowing leaves are typical signs of overwatering.
• Solution: Ensure the planting area has good drainage. Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and be especially cautious with watering during cooler months.

Underwatering

• Symptoms: Dry, crispy leaves and stunted growth indicate underwatering.
• Solution: Increase watering frequency, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry periods, supplemental watering may be necessary.

Poor Soil Drainage

• Symptoms: Water pooling around the plant base and general plant decline.
• Solution: Amend the soil with coarse sand or organic matter to improve drainage. Consider raised beds or containers if drainage cannot be improved in the ground.

Fungal Diseases

• Common Issues: Root rot and leaf spot are potential fungal problems, especially in wet conditions.
• Solution: Improve air circulation around the plants and reduce leaf wetness by watering at the base of the plant. If necessary, apply a fungicide according to label directions.

Pests

• Common Pests: Slugs and snails are attracted to the lush foliage, especially in damp conditions.
• Solution: Use organic slug and snail baits or barriers such as diatomaceous earth around the plants. Regularly remove any debris that could harbor pests.

Nutrient Deficiency

• Symptoms: Poor growth and discoloration of leaves.
• Solution: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the start of the growing season to promote healthy growth. Be careful not to over-fertilize, which can lead to other issues.