Pratia

Pratia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Campanulaceae, typically found in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, and South America. These plants are generally low-growing, often mat-forming herbs, making them suitable for ground cover in gardens or rockeries.

Pratia species are characterized by their small, often creeping habit and their ability to spread readily. They produce small, usually white or pale blue, star-shaped flowers. The flowers are followed by small, berry-like fruits.

Several species within the Pratia genus are popular in horticulture due to their attractive foliage and ability to suppress weeds. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and prefer partial shade.

Some common species include:

• Pratia angulata: Native to New Zealand, often called "White Star Creeper" or "Creeping Pratia."

• Pratia pedunculata: Also known as "Blue Star Creeper," is cultivated for its blue or white flowers.

The classification of some species previously placed in Pratia has been subject to taxonomic revision, with some species now classified under different genera within the Campanulaceae family. Therefore, up-to-date taxonomic databases should be consulted for the most accurate classification.