Biddy-biddy

acaena microphylla

Also known as: ["Kotukutuku","New Zealand burr"]

Family: Rosaceae Genus: Acaena Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb native to New Zealand, known for its small, fern-like leaves and burr-like fruits that cling to fur and clothing.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Acaena
Botanical Name: Acaena microphylla

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, ground cover in sunny areas
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of runners.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but can help speed up root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Trim back straggly or dead stems; pinch tips to encourage bushiness.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or overgrown stems.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may enter dormancy; prolonged cold can damage roots or cause dieback.

Solution: Provide protection from frost; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move indoors in freezing conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Acaena microphylla can indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen or iron, or may result from environmental stress such as overwatering or poor drainage.

Wilting in Acaena microphylla is typically caused by water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from overwatering, leading to impaired water uptake.

Leaf spots on Acaena microphylla may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, often exacerbated by high humidity or overhead watering, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Acaena microphylla is often associated with excessive moisture and poor soil drainage, which can lead to fungal infections and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Acaena microphylla is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Acaena microphylla is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Acaena microphylla is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are necessary for handling or growing this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Acaena microphylla invasive?

A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions due to its ability to spread rapidly via its burr-like fruits.

Q: Does it require much care?

A: No, it is very low maintenance and thrives in poor soils with minimal watering.

Q: Can it be grown indoors?

A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, best suited for ground cover in gardens.

Quick Reference
Family: Rosaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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