Acaena caesiiglauca, commonly known as glaucous pirri-pirri-bur or silver-leafed New Zealand burr, is a perennial herb native to the grasslands and alpine regions of New Zealand. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 inches with a spread of about 2 feet. This ground cover plant is characterized by its silky bluish-grey foliage and small, inconspicuous reddish burr flowers that appear in summer. The flowers are not particularly showy, but they do produce burrs that can cling to fur and clothing. The plant’s low-growing, mat-forming habit and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for rock gardens and as a ground cover in garden borders.

Glaucous pirri-pirri-bur is valued for its unique foliage color and texture, which provides visual interest in the garden. It is used in cultivation for ground cover, rockeries, and alpine gardens. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of conditions from full sun to partial shade. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Gardeners should be cautious, as Acaena caesiiglauca can become invasive outside its native range, spreading through its burrs. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require control measures to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0