Ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Ground-ivy on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Ground-ivy
Glechoma hederacea, commonly known as ground-ivy or creeping charlie, is a low-growing perennial plant with rounded to kidney-shaped leaves and small blue-violet flowers. It's an excellent choice as a groundcover in shaded areas or as a trailing plant in hanging baskets, where its creeping stems can cascade gracefully. It adds a rustic and natural touch to gardens and patios.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
It prefers partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun if the soil is kept moist. Watering should be regular to keep the substrate consistently damp, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. It adapts to a wide range of soils but prefers those rich in organic matter and well-drained. A common mistake is planting it in full sun without sufficient moisture, which can lead to leaf scorch and plant weakening.
How to save a dying Ground-ivy
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting leaves, soft and blackened stems. Soft, dark roots.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If waterlogged, remove plant, trim rotten roots, repot in dry, well-draining soil. Reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, causing root rot. Also intense direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot is not too advanced. Act quickly by pruning affected parts and improving drainage.