Creeping Spotflower

(Acmella repens)

Creeping Spotflower (Acmella repens)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Acmella repens, commonly known as creeping spotflower, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to wetland habitats including marshes, swamps, and riparian zones along streams and ponds in the southeastern and south-central United States, as well as in Mexico, Cuba and South America. This species typically forms a low mat of foliage and is characterized by its small yellow flowers with a prominent central disc, which bloom from late spring to early fall. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite numerous, creating a carpet of color when in bloom.

Creeping spotflower is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and provide ground cover in moist, wetland areas. It is often used in rain gardens, water features, and naturalized areas where its creeping habit and tolerance for wet conditions are advantageous. In cultivation, Acmella repens prefers full sun to part shade, consistently moist to wet soil, and does not tolerate drought well. While it is not commonly known for significant pest or disease problems, it can spread aggressively in ideal conditions, potentially becoming invasive in areas outside its native range. Gardeners should be mindful of its spreading nature when considering it for landscape use.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type:
  • Height: 0.25-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Red, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

native to wetland habitats including marshes, swamps, and riparian zones along streams and ponds in the southeastern and south-central United States, as well as in Mexico, Cuba and South America

Other Names

Common Names: Creeping Spot Flower , Toothache Plant , Para Cress

Scientific Names: Acmella repens , Acmella nuttaliana , Acmella occidentalis , Acmella oppositifolia var. oppositifolia , Acmella oppositifolia var. repens , Acmella repens , Acmella repens var. beccabunga , Acmella repens var. repens , Anthemis repens , Anthemis trinervia

GBIF Accepted Name: