Ground ivy
Also known as
Creeping Charlie, Gill-over-the-ground, Alehoof, Field balm, Runaway Robin, Tunhoof
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Glechoma hederacea is a stoloniferous perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae) valued as a vigorous groundcover and notorious lawn invader. It creeps along the soil on rooting stems, forming dense mats of rounded, scalloped, opposite leaves that release a minty aroma when crushed. In spring, it bears small, tubular, violet to bluish-purple flowers that attract early pollinators. Native to Europe and western Asia and widely naturalized in North America, it thrives in moist, fertile soils and partial shade but tolerates a wide range of conditions, including heavy clay and periodic foot traffic. While sometimes cultivated in containers or hanging baskets for its cascading habit and variegated cultivars, in garden beds it can spread aggressively, requiring edging or barriers. Historically, it has culinary and herbal uses, but it is toxic to horses and some livestock, so avoid grazing exposure. For ornamental use, it is low-maintenance, cold-hardy, and semi-evergreen in mild climates, making it a practical living mulch under shrubs and trees where turfgrass struggles.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Ground ivy
Water
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during establishment and warm weather. In the ground, water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; established clumps tolerate brief dryness but may wilt, then recover after watering. In containers, water when the top 1–2 cm turns dry, allowing excess to drain freely—never let pots sit in water. Mulch and organic matter help buffer moisture swings. Reduce watering in cool seasons, but do not allow prolonged drought.
Light
Thrives in partial shade to bright dappled light and excels where turf fails under trees and shrubs. It tolerates full sun in cool climates if soil remains consistently moist; in hotter regions, provide afternoon shade to prevent scorch. It can persist in fairly deep shade but may thin and flower less. Indoors or on shaded balconies, give bright, indirect light and a few hours of gentle morning sun. Variegated forms require more light to keep markings.
Nutrients
Ground ivy is not a heavy feeder. In the ground, it often needs no fertilizer if soil is moderately fertile and enriched with organic matter. For containers or hanging baskets, apply a balanced, dilute liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 at 1/4–1/2 strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth in spring and early summer. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas that can promote excessive, floppy growth. Incorporating compost at planting provides steady nutrition and helps retain moisture.
Temperature
Hardy outdoors in USDA Zones 3–10, ground ivy endures freezing winters, often remaining semi-evergreen in mild regions. Ideal growth occurs in cool to moderate temperatures (10–24°C / 50–75°F). It tolerates summer heat if soil stays moist and afternoon shade is provided, but prolonged hot, dry conditions cause stress and leaf scorch. In containers, protect roots from deep freezes by insulating pots or overwintering in a sheltered, cold but frost-free spot. No special humidity is required outdoors.
