Pimelea prostrata subsp. seismica

Commonly known as pinatoro, this native ground cover creates a carpet like appearance with small white flowers flourishing from October through to January. The larger detailing sets it apart from more commonly seen ground covers such as the moss looking plant, Scleranthus biflorus. The upright finger like tendrils add an interesting cushion like element. The 'species' name (second part of the latin name, the first being the genus), being prostrata illustrates the low lying form of the plant, especially relative to other Pimelia species.   This example was found on the southern coast of the Wellington region, while not commonly used as a landscaping plant (although it has great potential as a form giving plant), it is not uncommon in coastal areas of the North Island and upper South Island. 

Melicytus crassifolius

Commonly known as Thick-leaved mahoe, this native ground cover creates a very nice compact form. This example, pictured on the southern coast of the Wellington region, is in a wild, wind swept form. When grown in a more cultivated protected environment, this plant grows in undulated clusters, rather than a spread carpet as seen here. Interestingly this plant is closely related to Mahoe (whitey wood or Melicytus ramiflorus), which is found right throughout NZ as a natural forest regeneration stage tree. 

Scleranthus biflorus

Scleranthus biflorus is a ground cover plant (not a moss). It grows to around 75cm high, and will be tight and compact within the shade, but if in grown in the sun it will spread out. Commonly known as Two-flowered Knawel When grown in a controlled environment it creates very distinct and visually appealing undulating clusters. This example was found in Otari reserve, Wellington.