How to Grow Ground Ivy
Wikimedia Commons
Ground Ivy
Glechoma hederacea
herbGround ivy is a low-growing, creeping perennial herb with small round leaves and delicate purple-blue flowers. It spreads rapidly via runners and is commonly used as a ground cover, though it can become invasive in some regions. Historically valued for flavoring beer before hops became standard, it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
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Example Ground Ivy timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ground Ivy
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ground Ivy
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ground Ivy dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; extremely cold and heat hardy
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny round cotyledons emerge; first true leaves appear small and kidney-shaped. Plant is delicate and low to ground.
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Protect from strong direct sun initially. Provide good air circulation to prevent damping off.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple trailing stems with rounded, scalloped leaves. Runners begin to form and spread outward. Foliage becomes denser and more vigorous.
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Water regularly. Begin light fertilization if soil is poor. Remove any dead or diseased leaves.
Runner Development
4-6 weeksTrailing stems elongate significantly and root at nodes where they contact soil. Plant spreads horizontally, creating a dense mat. Runners may extend 12-24 inches.
Allow runners to spread if desired for ground cover; restrict runners if containing growth. Ensure adequate moisture as spreading increases water needs. Monitor for invasiveness.
Flowering
6-8 weeksSmall purple, lavender, or blue flowers appear in whorls along stems. Flowers are tubular and delicate. Plant reaches peak ornamental appeal.
Deadhead spent flowers if you want to encourage more foliage growth rather than seed production. Flowering can continue for 6-8 weeks. Provide consistent water during bloom.
Seed Production & Dormancy
Ongoing; plant persists year-round in mild zonesFlowers mature into small round seeds. Plant naturally thins in intense heat or cold. Foliage may decline in harsh conditions but regrows from established roots.
Allow some flowers to set seed for self-seeding if desired. Cut back overgrown plants in late fall or early spring. Reduce watering if plant enters dormancy. Plant is semi-evergreen.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Improve air circulation.
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Hand-pick; use copper tape barriers. Beer traps or diatomaceous earth around plantings.
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or baking soda spray if needed.
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Remove affected leaves; avoid wetting foliage. Improve drainage and air flow around plants.
Uses
Historical Beer Flavoring
CulinaryGround ivy was the primary bittering and flavoring agent in beer before hops became standard in the 15th century. Known as 'alehoof,' it was widely used in ale production across Europe. [source]
Respiratory & Digestive Support
MedicinalTraditional herbalism uses ground ivy tea for coughs, colds, and digestive complaints. The herb contains pulegone and other volatile oils with antispasmodic properties. (Note: Use with caution in large amounts; moderate, dilute use only.) [source]
Ground Cover & Garden Design
HouseholdExcellent low-maintenance ground cover for shaded areas, banks, and hard-to-mow spaces. Its rapid spreading and attractive foliage make it popular for erosion control and aesthetic landscaping, though containment may be necessary. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeFlowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators during spring and early summer, providing nectar when few other plants are blooming. Seeds are eaten by birds. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Potpourri
CraftDried stems and flowers retain color and can be used in dried floral arrangements, wreaths, and homemade potpourri. The foliage has a pleasant herbal scent when dried. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest foliage anytime after the plant is established (4-6 weeks from planting). Pinch off growing tips and upper leaves for best quality. Best harvested in morning after dew dries. For medicinal use, harvest during flowering (spring to early summer). Cut stems back by 1/3 at a time to maintain vigor. Dry leaves by hanging in bundles or spreading on screens in a warm, airy location.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ground ivy is so invasive and competitive that it is classified as a noxious weed in some U.S. states and prohibited in certain regions; always check local regulations before planting.
- 🌱 The common name 'alehoof' comes from its historical use in brewing, and it was so important that 'alehoof' became a legal measure of beer quality in medieval England.
- 🌱 Ground ivy contains pulegone, the same compound found in pennyroyal, which can be toxic in large quantities; it should never be ingested by pregnant women or in high doses.
Gardening Terms
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