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Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi)

5 from 2 customers

Piripiri, Purple Bidibidi, Purple Hakea, Purple Goose Leaf

Acaena purpurea, commonly known as Purple Bidibidi, is a hardy New Zealand native groundcover admired for its striking purple foliage and creeping growth habit. This evergreen perennial forms dense mats that provide year round colour and weed suppression. It is perfect for adding texture and contrast to pathways, borders, and eco-friendly landscapes.

Acaena inermis purpurea with small purple leaves.
A low growing Acaena inermis purpurea with purple leaves.
Vibrant purple colours of Acaena inermis purpurea.
Acaena inermis purpurea showcasing its small and purple leaves.
Acaena inermis purpurea growing as a ground cover plant.
Acaena inermis purpurea growing as an elegant purple ground cover.

Acaena purpurea (Piripiri) is currently unavailable, but we do have other other amazing species and varieties of Acaena available.

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Why? Our plants are subject to seasonality and high-demand. Please contact us if you would like to know when it becomes available again.

Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Groundcover Plants
Height:10 cm
Spread:1.00 m
Flowering time:
Tolerances:Hardy
Garden uses:Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Native
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asPiripiri, Purple Bidibidi, Purple Hakea, Purple Goose Leaf
Sku10260

How to grow Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) in NZ

Growing Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) in New Zealand is simple, as it thrives in a wide range of conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and grows best in free draining soils. It is drought tolerant once established, making it ideal for dry or exposed areas. Plant in open spaces where it can spread naturally and provide a bold splash of colour in the garden.

Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) care tips

Caring for Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) is straightforward. Trim back any unwanted or overgrown sections to control spread and encourage fresh growth. A light application of fertiliser in spring will help maintain vigour and colour. It is naturally low maintenance and thrives with little attention once established.

Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) size, spacing, and growth rate

Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) typically grows 5 to 10 cm tall and spreads widely through creeping stems. For groundcover or mass planting, space plants 30 to 40 cm apart. The growth rate is moderate to fast, with plants quickly forming dense, colourful mats under suitable conditions.

Landscaping uses for Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi)

Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) is highly valued in landscaping for its vibrant foliage and tough nature. It is ideal for mass planting, borders, pathways, and rock gardens. It suppresses weeds effectively and provides striking colour contrast against green and silver foliage plants. Its resilience and spreading habit make it an excellent choice for eco-friendly and low maintenance landscapes.

Why buy Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) from The Plant Company?

Purchasing Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) from The Plant Company ensures you receive top quality native plants grown in New Zealand conditions. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, we provide strong, healthy plants that establish quickly and thrive. Customers value our expert advice, fast nationwide delivery, and careful packaging. When you buy from The Plant Company, you can be confident your Acaena purpurea (Purple Bidibidi) will provide lasting beauty and resilience in your landscape.

What are the best growing conditions for Acaena purpurea?

Acaena purpurea grows best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. We cannot emphasise enough the importance of good drainage as plants can become diseased and die if drainage is poor or they are constantly waterlogged. It will tolerate coastal environments, wind, and frost.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Acaena purpurea (Piripiri)? We are here to help.

Reviews

5 from 2 customers
Roger Long - Canterbury

Beautiful plants, great communication, far better pricing than anyone else online, and fast delivery - what else could we need? My wife and I love dealing with you guys and appreciate all your efforts. Businesses that are passionate and care about their customers are hard to come by these days.

Elizabeth Gold - Auckland

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