Native

Purple leaf Creeping Boobialla 140MM

Myoporum parvifolium purpurea

I am Purple leaf Creeping Boobialla. My family originated from South Australia and western Victoria.

Habit Groundcover - Hardy Ground Cover

Plant family Scrophulariaceae

I am a fast-growing, low-spreading native groundcover known for my lush, trailing habit and attractive purple-tinged foliage. I hug the ground, rarely rising above 10-15 cm, but I can spread several metres wide, making me perfect for covering bare soil, suppressing weeds, or softening edges in your garden. In spring and summer, I'm dotted with small white, star-like flowers that add subtle charm. I thrive in Australian conditions, especially in full sun, and I'm highly tolerant of drought, coastal winds, and poor soils once established. I'm ideal for slopes, rockeries, and large open spaces where low maintenance is key. Give me well-drained soil and occasional watering while I establish, then I'll mostly take care of myself. A light trim now and then keeps me tidy and encourages dense growth. Avoid overwatering - I'm much happier on the dry side!

I am popular and will make you happy because...

A hardy groundcover well suited to cover embankments, over retaining walls and as an under planting

My dense and attractive purple foliage will outcompete most weeds and deepens in colour over winter

I produce small white fragrant star shaped flowers from spring through to autumn

Features

Ideal light: Full Sun to Part ShadeI am happiest in full sun but still perform well as in shade and heavy shade

Height: 0.15m Width: 2m(Can be kept trimmed to Height: 0.15m Width: 0.15m)(Size at point of sale approx. 35cm including pot)

Water needs: Low (once established)I need minimal water once established

Suitable for coastal planting, I tolerate grey water and most soil types

Frost tolerance: High

Plant features

Coastal tolerant White flowers Dark Green To Purple foliage Flowers Jan-Feb, Nov-Dec

Council planting lists On 2 council lists

The species Myoporum parvifolium is on these council lists. Councils usually mean plants grown from local seed, so check whether a selected form like this one suits your project.

City of Greater Dandenong
Recommended for landscape plans: Landscape Plan Guidelines: recommended species (Small shrub, native) Source
City of Kingston
Local native plant guide: Common indigenous plants in Kingston (Soil: adaptable, coastal) Source

From each council's website, checked 26 Oct 2026. Councils update their lists from time to time, so check the source before planting on council land or for a planning permit. Find your council's lists

Plant me:

In garden beds and general landscaping
In pots and other containers
In native and wildlife gardens
In hanging baskets

Tips for success

Prune me back after flowering to maintain compact growth

Suggested spacing: 1m apart.

Full Sun to Part Shade (4+ hours of direct sun)

Once established, check soil moisture and water during extended dry periods.

Planting & care

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Ask your retailer for Purple leaf Creeping Boobialla by Southern Plants. Our plants are available through Bunnings, good retail nurseries, or via landscapers. We do not sell direct to the public. Availability in individual stores varies; contact your retailer before visiting.

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Purple leaf Creeping Boobialla 140MM

Plant features

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Gardener reviews

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