Ground Ivy

(Glechoma hederacea)

Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Glechoma hederacea, commonly known as Ground Ivy, is an evergreen perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and grasslands across Europe and Asia. It typically forms a low, spreading mat reaching 5–50 cm (2.0–19.7 in) tall, with round to reniform (kidney or fan-shaped), crenate (with round-toothed edges) leaves on 3–6 cm (1.2–2.4 in) long petioles. The square stems root at the nodes, contributing to its aggressive spread. Ground Ivy emits a distinctive odor when damaged, characteristic of the mint family to which it belongs. Its flowers are bilaterally symmetrical, funnel-shaped, and range in color from blue or bluish-violet to lavender, blooming in clusters in the spring and are moderately showy.

Ground Ivy is appreciated for its aromatic foliage and its ability to cover ground quickly, making it suitable for use as a groundcover in shaded areas, in pots, or in hanging baskets. However, due to its rhizomatous growth and ability to spread by stolons or seed, it can become invasive, forming dense mats that outcompete other vegetation. In cultivation, it prefers part shade to full shade, medium amounts of water, and well-drained soils. A variegated cultivar is available and is often used for its ornamental appeal. Gardeners should be cautious of its potential to spread and consider using barriers to contain its growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.4-0.7 feet
  • Width: 0.571-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Border Plant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Potted Plant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, forest edges, and grasslands across Europe and Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Gill-Over-The-Ground, Ground-Ivy, Creeping Charlie, Alehoof, Creeping Jenny, Tunhoof, Catsfoot, Groundivy, Haymaids, Field Balm

Scientific Names: , Glechoma hederacea, Nepeta hederacea, Glechoma hederacea subsp. hederacea, Glechoma hederacea var. hederacea, Nepeta glechoma, Glecoma hederacea, Glechoma hederacea var. micrantha, Glechoma hederacea var. parviflora, Chamaecissos hederaceus

GBIF Accepted Name: Glechoma hederacea L.