Myoporum debile (groundcover ngaio) is a low-growing, spreading evergreen shrub in the Scrophulariaceae family, native to Australia and widely used in New Zealand gardens as a hardy groundcover. It typically forms a dense mat only about 20–50 cm high, but can spread several metres wide by rooting along its trailing stems. The foliage is small, glossy, and bright green, resembling that of larger ngaio (Myoporum laetum), though much more compact in form. In summer, it produces small white, star-shaped flowers with purple spots, followed by tiny purple fruits that attract birds. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and performs well in coastal and exposed conditions, tolerating wind, drought, and salt spray, making it a reliable, low-maintenance choice for banks, borders, and erosion control planting.
Myroporum debile - groundcover ngaio
Botanical Name Myoporum debile Common Name groundcover ngaio Family Scrophulariaceae Type low-growing, herbaceous groundcover
Origin Austraila
Mature Height 20-50cm Mature Spread 1-3m Sun Requirements Full sun to partial shade Soil well-drained, moderately fertile soil, moist with not waterlogged Flowering small white flowers Foliage Colour Green Wind Tolerance Hardy Frost Tolerance Hardy Drought Tolerance Hardy Growth Rate Moderate Maintenance Very low Conservation Status Not Threatened
