California Gardens - The Year Round Gardening Site

Glechoma hederacea variegata - Ground Ivy, Creeping Charley

Glechoma hederacea variegata is a low trailing plant in the sage and mint family. The Ground Ivy will grow several inches tall and spread up to 4 feet or more. Creeping Charley can be a pest in many circumstances, choking out other plants. At one time Glechoma hederacea was also used instead of hops for flavoring and preserving beer, hence the name Ale Ivy or Ale hoff. Due to its long history of cultivation there are a wealth of common names. Glechoma hederacea variegata is sensitive to drought and prefers a regular drink. Plants do their best in light shade but can take full sun near the coast if there is adequate water. Glechoma hederacea variegata looks great hanging over the edge of a pot or trailing over rocks in a rock garden. Plants are hardy to 10° F.

Glechoma hederacea variegata, Ground Ivy, Creeping Charley

Flowers and foliage of Glechoma hederacea variegata - Variegated Ground Ivy or Creeping Charley. High resolution photos are part of our garden image collection.