Nertera balfouriana

Nertera balfouriana is a small plant native to New Zealand. Its range includes both North Island and South Island. It belongs to Rubiaceae, the same family as coffee. Kew classes its growth form as a subshrub. Plants For A Future describes it as a perennial. Its native climate is temperate. It grows in damp or boggy places, often among sphagnum moss. These sites range from low ground to the subalpine zone.

The plant grows close to the ground and forms mats. Its stems root at their nodes as they spread. Garden dimensions are about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] tall. The spread reaches about 1 foot [0.3 metres]. This low form suits small spaces within a rock garden. Plants For A Future also lists beds and woodland edges. Such sites must still meet its needs for shelter and drainage.

Each flower has both male and female organs. The supplied sources give no flowering season or flower colour. The fruit is a berry with one seed inside. It measures about 0.03 feet [0.01 metres] across. Plants For A Future lists the raw fruit as edible. It gives the plant a low food-use score. The same source reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. This does not establish safety for pets or every use.

In gardens, give it light soil that drains well. Sandy and loamy soils both suit its needs. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. It prefers moist ground and a partly shaded site. Shelter from cold winds is also part of its care. Despite its wet native habitat, excess winter wet causes problems. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. Its British guidance limits outdoor growing to the mildest areas. Frosts there should be light and brief.

Spring division is one way to raise more plants. Sow seed in spring under cool, shaded cover. A greenhouse or cold frame suits this stage. Move seedlings into separate pots once large enough to handle. Keep them under light shade through their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after frost risk. Young plants may need protection during their first outdoor winter. The sources name no specific pests or diseases.