Lobelia angulata aka Lawn Lobelia

Lobelia angulata is a low ground cover from New Zealand. It belongs to Campanulaceae, the bellflower family. Garden sources also call it pratia or lawn lobelia. The RHS lists Pratia angulata as a synonym. This name appears in other garden records for the species. It is a herbaceous perennial that forms a leafy mat. Its stems creep across the soil and root as they grow.

The foliage stands about 0.08–0.17 feet (0.025–0.05 metres) high. A listed garden height reaches 0.26 feet (0.08 metres). Its listed spread is about 1 foot (0.3 metres). Yet the creeping stems can spread without a fixed limit. Small, bright green leaves cover the low stems. Each leaf is rounded, with a toothed edge. The leaves look somewhat fleshy and reach 0.04 feet (0.013 metres) across. The plant's low form suits spaces between stepping stones.

White flowers have purple veins and resemble those of other lobelias. They grow from the points where leaves meet stems. Missouri Botanical Garden gives May to August as the bloom season. Its account also describes flowers from spring through late summer. Round red to purple berries follow in autumn. These reach about 0.04 feet (0.013 metres) across. They look large against the tiny leaves and short stems. Both the flowers and fruit add interest at ground level.

Grow this plant in sun or partial shade. It needs moist, peaty soil that drains well. Keep moisture steady rather than letting the soil dry out. It also tolerates boggy ground and some foot traffic. Damp rock gardens and small ground-cover beds suit its habit. It can also grow in pots or hanging baskets. Missouri Botanical Garden lists it for rain gardens and naturalized areas. In good conditions, its rooting stems may spread rather strongly.

The listed USDA hardiness range is zones 6–10. Winter survival may be uncertain in the St. Louis area. There, a sheltered site and winter mulch are advised. The plant needs little routine care, according to Missouri Botanical Garden. That source reports no serious insect or disease problems. Slugs and aphids may still occur from time to time.