A unique perennial from New Zealand makes a hardy ground cover for landscaping.
Brass buttons can be planted in the spring or fall, generally from potted nursery starts or root divisions.
However, it will do best in medium-moisture, well-drained soils, and is not fond of dry conditions.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Given room, they will spread almost indefinitely.
Over time, as the soil becomes compacted, a colony may lose its vigor and die back.
In fact, brass buttons can grow infull shade, although flowers will be sparse.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
If your landscape has compacted soil, amend generously withcompostor leaf mold before planting.
Brass buttons plants prefer an acidic soil pH (5.5-6.8).
Water
In its native habitat, brass buttons plant grows in damp areas.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Mulch for the winter to keep roots moist.
In hot, dry areas, help plants cope by giving them a shadier locale and anoccasional misting.
Fertilizer
When you provide the right kind of soil, fertilizing brass buttons plants is unnecessary.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
In areas with lean soils, an occasional side dressing of compost will be enough to enrich the plants.
Pruning
Because of its short stature,deadheading isn’t necessaryfor brass buttons plants.
Keep the seed tray warm (about 70 degrees Fahrenheit) for best results.
Platt’s Black Brass ButtonsMissouri Botanical Garden PlantFinder
Germination takes place in 2 to 3 weeks.
The seeds are extremely small, found inside the tiny fruits left behind from the golden flowers.
Blast them away with a strong jet of water.
Plants stressed by dry conditions are susceptible tomites.
Common Problems With Brass Buttons
Brass buttons are easy to grow but can have minor problems.
If you see any of the following, take steps to amend the issue.
Scorched Leaves
Brass buttons don’t like growing in too much sun.
Avoid very hot, sunny spots, as this plant can scorch and does need a somewhat humid environment.
Brass button plant seeds may be difficult to find.
Your best bet is to buy a starter plant from a retailer or propagate using cuttings as detailed above.
Brass buttons foliage turns a brassy bronze or purplish color in the fall.
The deeply divided foliage and vibrant yellow spring flowers of brass buttons form a dense and sturdy mat underfoot.
California Invasive Plant Council.
