Myoporum parvifolium
creeping boobialla
Southern Australia (South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales)
Overview
Myoporum parvifolium is an evergreen prostrate groundcover in the Scrophulariaceae family, growing 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) tall and spreading 3-10 feet (1-3 m) wide as a dense, flat mat. The stems root where they touch the ground, and the small fleshy leaves are 0.4-1.2 inches (1-3 cm) long, narrow, and bright green. Small white star-shaped flowers about 0.4 inch (1 cm) across, often spotted with purple, open along the stems from spring into summer, followed by small purple fleshy fruits. It is native to southern Australia, across South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales, where it grows on plains and along watercourses. It is fast-spreading, drought tolerant once established, and tolerant of light frost to about 25F (-4C) and coastal salt. It grows in most well-drained soils. The foliage and fruit of some Myoporum spp. contain compounds reported toxic to grazing livestock. Its rapid spread can crowd out smaller plants.
Native Range
Myoporum parvifolium is native to southern Australia, occurring across South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales. It grows on plains, dunes, and along inland watercourses.Suggested Uses
Used as a fast groundcover for banks, slopes, and large beds, and as a spillover plant in raised beds and containers, spaced 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) apart. It suits low-water and coastal gardens and stabilises sloping ground. Its dense mat suppresses weeds once established.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2" - 6"
Width/Spread3' - 9'10"
Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs from spring into summer, roughly September to February in the Southern Hemisphere. The small white, purple-spotted star-shaped flowers open along the stems over a long period. Bees and other insects visit the flowers, and small purple fruits follow.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White with purple spotsFoliage Description
Bright greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in full sun to light part shade in most well-drained soils at a pH of 6.0-8.0, including sandy and limestone ground. Water needs are low once established, and the mat withstands heat, drought, and coastal salt. It tolerates light frost to about 25F (-4C). Growth is fast, and the mat roots as it spreads, covering ground within a season or two. Occasional water in extreme heat keeps the foliage dense.Pruning
Trimming the edges of the mat keeps it within bounds and prevents it from smothering neighbouring plants. Stems are cut back in spring to refresh dense growth. It tolerates regular trimming and reshoots from the trailing stems.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons