Creeping Jenny
Lysimachia nummularia Aurea
Aurea
About this plant
Lysimachia nummularia, commonly known as Creeping Jenny, is a low-growing, spreading plant with small round leaves that form dense mats. It produces tiny yellow flowers in spring and summer. It's often used as groundcover or in hanging baskets for its bright green or golden foliage. It can quickly cover areas and is valued for its ability to grow in shady spots.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Lysimachia
- Family
- Primulaceae
- Higher classification
- Ericales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in gardens worldwide, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -20 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15–24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 3–9
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during hot, dry weather and reduce watering in cooler months.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Lysimachia nummularia is a tough and fast-growing groundcover that thrives in moist soil and can tolerate shade. It requires moderate watering and is generally low-maintenance. Watch for overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Bright green to golden round leaves forming dense mats, small yellow star-shaped flowers.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Potentially invasive
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to have around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Lysimachia nummularia may cause mild skin irritation in some people who are sensitive to plant sap. The main trigger is contact with the plant's sap. Symptoms can include redness or itching on the skin. To reduce exposure, wear gloves when handling or pruning the plant.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot, and in very dry conditions, the plant may wilt or stop spreading. It can sometimes become invasive if not controlled.
Uses
Used as groundcover in gardens, in hanging baskets, and for erosion control. Its bright foliage adds color to shady areas.
Notes
Prune regularly to control spread and keep the plant tidy. It can be invasive in some areas, so monitor its growth. Repot or divide every few years to maintain vigor.