Blue Star Creeper (Pratia pedunculata): Tiny Leaves, Starry Blue Flowers for Moist Shade

Blue star creeper, also called swamp isotome or matted pratia, is a diminutive, mat-forming perennial with tiny, rounded leaves and a profusion of pale blue, star-shaped flowers in spring and summer. It excels in moist, shady sites and between stepping stones.

Botanical Profile

• Family: Campanulaceae
• Genus: Pratia (often included in Lobelia or Isotoma)
• Species: pedunculata
• Synonyms: Isotoma fluviatilis, Laurentia fluviatilis, Lobelia fluviatilis, Pratia puberula

Growth and Appearance

Forms a tight, prostrate mat 1–2 inches tall, spreading by stolons. Leaves are tiny (¼ inch), rounded, bright green. Flowers are ¼–½ inch, pale blue with white centers, star-shaped, borne on short stalks. Blooms spring to summer.

Culture

Part to full shade. Consistently moist, rich soil; tolerates shallow water. Hardy in USDA zones 6–9. Can be aggressive in ideal conditions; not for dry sites.

Uses

Ground cover for moist shade, between stepping stones, around ponds, rock gardens, fairy gardens. Light foot traffic tolerated.