Muehlenbeckia axillaris (Hook. f.) Walp.

A tiny, deciduous, creeping shrub 1 or 2 in. high, forming a dense mat upon the ground of thin wiry branches, and spreading indefinitely by underground stems. Ultimately it may make a tangled mass of stems 1 foot high. Young shoots minutely downy. Leaves ovate to round, 1⁄8 to 1⁄3 in. long, glabrous, not toothed; the stalk scarcely so long. Flowers pale green, very tiny, produced singly or in pairs in the axils of the terminal leaves during July.

Native of the mountainous districts of New Zealand, Tasmania, and Australia. This little shrub, which is one of the very dwarfest in cultivation, may be recommended to lovers of curiosities. Its flowers are scarcely perceptible, but its thread-like stems, tiny round leaves, and matted growth, make it interesting. It may be grown on some rock garden ledge. Easily increased by division or cuttings.