Leptinella squalida ‘Platt’s Black’
Overview
Uses: Groundcover for pathways, rock gardens, between stepping stones, shaded borders, and container plantings.
Benefits: Finely textured bronze-black foliage with chartreuse highlights forms a dense, low mat. Provides strong contrast against lighter plants and tolerates light foot traffic once established.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Groundcover, Spreading — low mat-forming stems that root as they spread.
Bloom Color: Yellow
Foliage Color: Bronze-Black with Chartreuse tips
Mature Height: 1"–2"
Mature Width: 6"–12"
Bloom Season: Summer
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
‘Platt’s Black’ adds dramatic texture and deep foliage color to low-growing plantings.
Its finely cut, fern-like leaves spread to form a tight, carpet-like mat in shades of bronze, near-black, and olive. The foliage creates contrast in rock gardens and between stepping stones, where its texture softens hard edges without overwhelming surrounding plants.
Small yellow button-like flowers appear in summer, offering subtle seasonal interest while keeping the focus on foliage. Compact and adaptable, it performs well in both garden beds and creative container arrangements.
Care
Brass Buttons ‘Platt’s Black’ Care
Plant in moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Best foliage color develops with consistent moisture and protection from intense afternoon heat in warmer climates.
Water regularly during establishment. Once established, maintain even moisture; prolonged drought may reduce vigor and color intensity.
Apply a slow release fertilizer in spring if desired.
Trim lightly or divide every few years to refresh growth and manage spread.
Container Growing: This variety performs well in containers with good drainage. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering than in-ground plantings. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is Brass Buttons ‘Platt’s Black’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in greenhouse-grade grow pots and are well established prior to shipping. For current pot sizes and availability, please contact us.
How Large Does Brass Buttons ‘Platt’s Black’ Grow?
This groundcover typically forms a mat 1–2 inches tall and spreads 6–12 inches wide, gradually filling gaps between stones or along borders.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
It is commonly known as Brass Buttons.
Does ‘Platt’s Black’ tolerate foot traffic?
It tolerates light foot traffic once established, making it suitable between stepping stones or in lightly used garden paths. For higher-traffic areas, combine with other durable groundcovers.
Is Brass Buttons evergreen?
In milder climates it remains evergreen. In colder zones, foliage may die back and return in spring.
How does it spread over time?
It spreads by surface runners, forming a controlled mat that gradually fills available space without aggressive growth.
Where does it work best in the landscape?
Its low profile and dark foliage pair well with lighter perennials and ornamental grasses. Explore additional low-growing options in our Perennials collection.
