Ground ivy - Glechoma hederacea (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Ground ivy

Also known as: Alehoof, Field balm

Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) is a perennial evergreen trailing plant, often found in grasslands and woodlands. Saxon peoples once spread the plant, but it has become invasive in some parts of the world now. The fast-growing ground ivy can be toxic to horses but generally cannot harm other animals or humans.

Scientific classification

Species

Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Blue, Purple, Lavender, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Blue

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Ground ivy

Distribution of Ground ivy

Distribution Map

Ground ivy is native to Eurasia, found in grassy and steppe-type ecosystems. Spread as an ornamental to the rest of the world, it is naturalized in the United States, some parts of South America, and New Zealand. In the United States it has become invasive.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp waste ground, hedgerows, woodland margins

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

The vibrant spring blooms and colorful foliage of ground ivy make this plant a decorative addition to any garden, including woodland and informal gardens. It tends to creep, which makes it perfect as ground cover in garden beds or borders. The stems can also trail from hanging baskets on sunny patios, creating an interesting effect.

Symbolism

Wedded Love, Fidelity, Friendship, Affection, Dependence, divination

Interesting Facts

Many types of wild bees collect pollen from ground ivy - Anthophora furcata, Anthidum manicatum, Anthophora plumipes, Osmia aurulenta, etc. However, this bee-loving plant is an aggressive weed in non-native areas, such as the United States.

Name Story

Ground-ivy: The word, Ivy is originated from the Anglo-Saxon word, ifig which is the same origin as efeu in German. However, its specific meaning could not be traced back anymore. Till today, almost all the vines are called ivy. Interestingly, this plant is different from the climbing ivy in which it spreads all over the ground with its stolons forming a thick layer on the ground. Hence, it is called the ground-ivy.

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Cultivars

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

Ground ivy 'Variegata'

Toxicity

Consumption of ground ivy leaves is unsafe for pregnant women, liver disease, or epilepsy. Symptoms depend on intake and include potential abortion or liver damage. Ground ivy is mildly toxic to cats and dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset. Seek veterinary care if consumed.

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Quickly Identify Ground ivy

Low-lying evergreen herb with a creeping habit.

Square stems rooting at nodes for sprawl.

Clusters of blue-violet tubular flowers with fuzzy hairs.

Oval fruit pods releasing dark brown nutlets.

Pubescent stem with fringe of long white hairs at nodes.

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Care Guide for Ground ivy

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Ground ivy thrives in moist, shaded woodlands and requires evenly moist soil, with weekly watering preferred to avoid waterlogging. Once established, it shows moderate drought tolerance. As an evergreen, ground ivy retains foliage year-round, effectively using dew and light rain for hydration.

Fertilize: For ground ivy, apply balanced fertilizers biannually for healthy growth, using a light dose per product recommendations. During active growth, increase frequency slightly. Avoid over-fertilization; ensure moist soil beforehand. Apply during cooler times and water thoroughly afterward to enhance absorption.

Pruning: Ground ivy is a creeping perennial that thrives with spring pruning, focusing on trimming long runners and removing dead stems. This practice curbs invasiveness and enhances growth. Clean tools are essential to reduce disease risk. Prune before spring's vigorous growth for optimal results.

Propagation: Ground ivy propagates well through cuttings in spring and summer. It's moderately easy to propagate, indicated by root development and new growth. For optimal results, utilize a well-draining medium.

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Images of Ground ivy

Distribution of Ground ivy

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Ground ivy

Care Guide for Ground ivy

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