Ground elder - Aegopodium podagraria (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Ground elder

Also known as: Herb gerard, Snow-in-the-mountain

Aegopodium podagraria, commonly known as ground elder, is a herbaceous perennial native to Eurasia. Origin of its common name lies in the shape of its leaves and flowers, somewhat similar to elderberry. Ground elder is often cultivated as an ornamental plant. Due to its fast spread via rhizomes, it is considered an invasive species in certain countries.

Scientific classification

Species

Ground elder (Aegopodium podagraria)

Carrots, ivies and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

40 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Green, White, Variegated, Blue

Leaf Color

6 cm to 12 cm

Flower Size

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Ground elder

Distribution of Ground elder

Distribution Map

Ground elder is native to temperate parts of Europe and Asia, where it grows in shady places. It was spread as an ornamental and has naturalized in the United Kingdom and the United States. Due to its potential for invasive growth, it is a restricted species in several US states.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Hedgerows, cultivated land, garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Ground elder is a spreading, ornamental plant used as ground cover in large outdoor landscapes. For the garden, this perennial can be useful near a border or controlled area, where it will be less likely to overtake other plants in the garden.

Symbolism

Change, growth, aggression, connection with nature, healing

Interesting Facts

Ground elder has been used as a leaf vegetable during the Middle Ages, and it's believed that ancient Romans initiated its use in the human diet. It has also been used as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine.

Name Story

Bishop's goutweed: It was imported into multiple regions as an ornamental plant, but it then became an invasive weed. It was often called bishop's goutweed because it was typically found near the ruins of the old church. Goutweed is derived from its specific epithet, podagragria which holds the meaning of gout of the foot.

Ground elder: The name, ground elder comes from the superficial similarity of its leaves and flowers to those of elder (Sambucus), which is unrelated. It is the type of species of the genus Aegopodium.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Ground elder, including the following common varieties :

Ground elder 'Variegatum'

Quickly Identify Ground elder

Compound leaves with three toothed leaflets.

Clusters of small, white flowers in umbels.

Schizocarpic seed pods split into two mericarps.

Distinct carrot-like scent emitted by the foliage.

Sprawling growth pattern from branched white rhizomes.

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Care Guide for Ground elder

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from shaded woodlands, ground elder prefers moist soil and regular watering weekly for optimum growth. While moderately drought-tolerant, it thrives best with consistent hydration. A mulch layer is beneficial for moisture retention and temperature regulation during its active growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of ground elder, apply a balanced fertilizer in spring every 4-6 weeks, ensuring the correct dosage to prevent harm. Fertilizing promotes healthy foliage, while seasonal dormancy requires no feeding. Use organic options and monitor ground elder for signs of deficiency or excess.

Pruning: Ground elder thrives with strategic pruning, ideally done from early to late spring. Cut back dead stems and thin overcrowded areas to enhance growth and control spread. Removing flower heads before seed formation further helps manage its invasiveness, promoting overall vigor in garden settings.

Propagation: Ground elder is best propagated by sowing in spring, with signs of success including vigorous growth and healthy foliage. Maintain moist seeds and use well-draining soil to enhance propagation outcomes.

Repotting: For ground elder, repot every 2-3 years, ideally in spring before growth begins. Use a larger pot to manage its spread, and after repotting, provide indirect light and regular watering. A breathable container benefits its root system, and control is necessary due to its vigorous nature.

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Images of Ground elder

Distribution of Ground elder

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Ground elder

Care Guide for Ground elder

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