Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea)

Also known as: Alehoof, Field balm

English Ivy (Hedera helix) is a perennial evergreen trailing plant commonly found in forests and urban areas. Originally spread by humans for ornamental purposes, it has now become invasive in various regions. English Ivy grows rapidly and can be toxic to horses, although it generally poses no threat to other animals or humans.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Ground ivy

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Blue Purple Lavender Violet

Images of Ground ivy

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.

Scientific Classification of Ground ivy

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Glechoma

Species

Ground ivy

Planting and Growing of Ground ivy

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Ground ivy?

Glechoma hederacea prefers its soil to be consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim to provide around 200 ml of water per session. The goal is to saturate the soil thoroughly without creating standing water, allowing excess to drain effectively.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Ground ivy? ›

What should I do if my Ground ivy is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Ground ivy? ›

How to save an overwatered Ground ivy? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Ground ivy?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 4-6 hours per day

The ideal light range for Glechoma hederacea includes partial sun to full shade, facilitating healthy foliage and consistent growth by balancing light exposure.

What type of lighting does Glechoma hederacea prefer? ›

Why is partial sunlight necessary for Glechoma hederacea? ›

How can you ensure that Glechoma hederacea receives optimum lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Ground ivy?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Glechoma hederacea, commonly known as ground ivy, thrives in a temperature range of 60-75°F. These temperatures are optimal for growth and photosynthesis, providing an ideal environment for nutrient uptake and proper metabolic functions. In this range, the plant exhibits vigorous growth and maintains vibrant foliage, which is crucial for ornamental purposes or ground cover.

What Soil is Best for Ground ivy?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Glechoma hederacea thrives in well-draining soil, as it prevents waterlogging which can cause root rot. Ensuring good drainage supports healthy root development and boosts overall plant vigor. This plant does best in soil with moderate nutrient levels. High nutrient soils can lead to rapid growth, but may reduce leaf flavor and aroma if used excessively. Balanced nutrition ensures optimal growth. Soil that retains some moisture benefits the plant by providing consistent hydration, promoting lush leaf growth without the need for constant watering. It helps maintain an adaptable growth cycle.

How to Fertilize Ground ivy?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Glechoma hederacea, also known as ground ivy, apply fertilizer sparingly. Use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Mix at a rate of one teaspoon per gallon of water for liquid forms. This ensures the plant gets essential nutrients without overwhelming its roots. Use at half the recommended concentration to avoid over-fertilization.

How to Prune Ground ivy?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by inspecting the entire plant to assess which parts need attention. Look for overly long stems, dead, or weak growths before making any cuts. Trim the plant’s outer edges first to maintain a neat appearance. This not only helps in shaping the plant but also in promoting bushier growth by encouraging lateral shoots. Focus on cutting just above a node or leaf joint. This strategy facilitates denser growth, resulting in a plant that covers more ground and prevents weed intrusion. Regular removal of dead or yellowing leaves and stems prevents the spread of disease and encourages new, healthy growth throughout the year.

How to Propagate Ground ivy plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring

Choose healthy, disease-free shoots from the mother plant. Ensure the cuttings are about 4-5 inches long, with at least two sets of leaves.

Strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, then place it into a potting mix that's moist yet well-draining.

Plant the cutting at a third of its length into the potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in indirect sunlight. Monitor for new root and leaf growth.

How to Repot Ground ivy plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Glechoma hederacea shows it's time to repot when roots begin to creep out of the drainage holes or if the plant appears root-bound and growth is stunted. Spring or autumn are ideal as the plant can recover quickly in milder weather.

Selecting a pot that's just one size larger than the current one is beneficial. It prevents overwatering by ensuring that the soil doesn't stay damp for too long, which is perfect for a plant that prefers a consistent, yet minimal watering routine.

Opt for a well-draining potting soil mix, ideally with a mix of peat, perlite, and coarse sand. This helps maintain moisture without becoming waterlogged, ensuring the plant's roots receive enough air circulation.

Toxicity of Ground ivy

Is Ground ivy toxic to humans?

The ingestion of ground ivy leaves is deemed unsafe for individuals who are pregnant, suffer from liver disorders, or have epilepsy. The possible harmful effects of this plant are contingent upon the dosage and means of consumption, and the associated symptoms and risks remain inadequately documented. Certain references suggest that it may lead to miscarriage or result in liver damage when taken in elevated quantities.

Is Ground ivy toxic to cat?

Ground ivy poses a low toxicity threat to cats. If felines consume significant quantities of any portion of the plant, they could suffer from negative side effects. To prevent possible poisoning, cat owners should be vigilant about letting their pets roam near or nibble on ground ivy. If a cat ingests a substantial amount, they may show general signs of discomfort. It is essential for cat owners to keep an eye out for any indications of sickness and to promptly seek veterinary assistance to safeguard their pet's health and wellbeing.

Is Ground ivy toxic to dog?

Ground ivy presents a low-level toxicity risk for dogs. Although this plant is not exceedingly toxic, consuming it in substantial amounts can result in poisoning. Dogs may be drawn to and ingest different parts of ground ivy, as all segments of the plant are regarded as toxic. Signs of poisoning in dogs can involve gastrointestinal disturbances like vomiting and diarrhea, as well as potential lethargy and excessive salivation. If you think your dog has ingested ground ivy, it is essential to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to guarantee appropriate treatment and management of any adverse symptoms.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.