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Physical description: This low-growing, non-climbing herbaceous perennial
plant forms mats 4 to 6 in. tall, and spreads indefinitely. The
evergreen leaves are dark green, elliptical, and 2 in. long.
Flowering occurs in early spring and continues sporadically throughout
summer. Flowers are 1-1 ¼ in. across, non fragrant, and
have a very attractive purple-blue color. They are produced densely
during flowering. Fruit is non-ornamental.
Optimal growing conditions: This plant performs best in a fertile, organically
rich, well-drained soil. It can tolerate acidic or neutral soils.
It is drought-resistant, but flowering is better with a little
water. In northern regions, it can grow in full sun to deep shade,
but in southern regions, it prefers moderate to deep shade. Growth
is moderate under good conditions. Winter hardiness: Zones 4
to 8.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases: Aphids and nematodes are the main pests. Concerning
diseases, blight, leaf spot, root rot, canker, and dieback are
most often encountered.
Use:
This low-growing but non-climbing species is appreciated as a
groundcover, and its abilities to entirely cover the ground and
protect the soil from erosion make it very useful in exposed
sites.
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