Description
Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) is a perennial with creeping stems, which root at the node. It forms dense patches and thrives in both sun and shade. The leaves are scalloped along the margin, heavily veined and rough on the upper surface. Funnel-shaped blue to violet flowers are found in clusters in leaf axils and occur in the spring. Ground ivy is similar to henbit in some respects but roots at stem nodes whereas henbit does not. Common mallow is also similar but has round stems and alternate leaves.
Cultural Control
Improving surface drainage, aerating when needed, and watering infrequently will help reduce ground ivy encroachment.
Species Data
- GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
- perennial weed
- GROWTH HABIT
- LEAFLET NUMBER
- one
- LEAF MARGIN
- serrated/toothed; scalloped
- LEAF HAIRS
- upper/lower surface
Figure 12
- upper/lower surface
- LEAF / LEAFLET SHAPE
- LEAF WIDTH
- leaves vary in width, from more than 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter at the base of the plant to less than 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) for newly emerged leaves
- LEAF VENATION
- palmate; prominent veins
- LEAF ARRANGEMENT
- opposite
- ROOT TYPE
- roots are fibrous, but ground ivy also spreads via creeping stems that root at the node
- FLOWER COLOR
- bluish purple with reddish speckles
Figure 13, Figure 14
- bluish purple with reddish speckles
Figure 1. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 2. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 3. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 4. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 5. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 6. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 7. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 8. Ground ivy growth habit.
Figure 9. Ground ivy leaflet shape.
Figure 10. Ground ivy leaflet shape.
Figure 11. Ground ivy leaflet shape.
Figure 12. Ground ivy leaf hairs.
Figure 13. Ground ivy flower color.
Figure 14. Ground ivy flower color.
Publication date: Nov. 16, 2017
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