Blue Star Creeper Isotoma axillaris Fizz 'n' Pop Glowing Purple = 'Tmlu 1301'

Water

Blue star creeper, which is a common name for Isotoma axillaris 'Fizz 'n' Pop Glowing Purple', prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil. Water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this may mean watering once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions. Use a watering can or hose to gently water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage. Generally, a total of around one gallon per week should be sufficient during the growing season, but less water may be needed during cooler months when the plant is not actively growing.

Light

Blue star creeper thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. Place the plant in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight a day for optimum growth and flowering. While it can tolerate some shade, too little light may result in leggy growth and fewer flowers. Avoiding deep shade is crucial for maintaining the plant’s vibrant color and compact form.

Temperature

The blue star creeper can tolerate a range of temperatures but performs best in environments where temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9 and can survive minimum temperatures down to around -10°F. During exceptionally cold snaps, it's advisable to provide some protection such as mulch to minimize damage to the root system.

Pruning

Prune blue star creeper to maintain a neat appearance and encourage dense, bushy growth. Trimming lightly after the main flowering flush has finished can stimulate a second bloom. Typically, this plant may be pruned in late spring or early summer. Cut back any dead or damaged stems anytime they appear to keep the plant healthy.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Blue Star Creeper requires well-draining soil with a peat moss or compost base, mixed with perlite or pumice for extra drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth.

Repotting

Blue Star Creeper should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, ideally during spring or early summer.

Humidity & Misting

Blue Star Creeper thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, around 50-70%. Avoid environments that are too dry for this plant to maintain its health.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Bright indirect light, high humidity, and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, protect in freezing temps.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Isotoma axillaris Fizz 'n' Pop Glowing Purple, commonly known as Blue Star, begins its life as a seed which germinates when conditions are right, usually involving moist, well-draining soil and warm temperatures. After germination, the seedling emerges and establishes itself, developing a root system and foliage through photosynthesis. As the Blue Star matures, it enters a vegetative growth phase, during which it produces more substantial foliage and begins to form its characteristic star-shaped flowers. Following pollination, which is often aided by insects attracted to the vibrant blooms, the plant sets seed, completing the reproductive stage. These seeds (once mature) are dispersed from the parent plant to begin a new life cycle. The Blue Star is a perennial, so it also enters a dormant phase during colder climates, ceasing active growth and reserving energy in its root system to survive until the conditions are favorable again for resuming growth.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Blue Star Creeper, Isotoma axillaris Fizz 'n' Pop Glowing Purple, is through division. This method can be carried out in early spring or fall when the plant's growth is not at its peak. To propagate by division, gently dig up the plant, making sure to keep a good amount of soil around the roots. Using your hands or a sharp knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the root system attached. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were originally growing, watering them well after planting. This process will enable the divisions to establish their own roots, growing into full plants over time. It is important to maintain consistent moisture and provide light shade until new growth indicates that the division has taken root.