Creeping Jenny

Lysimachia nummularia

Family: Loosestrife

Type: Perennial

Other Common Name: Moneywort

Creeping Jenny, a vibrant ground cover, thrives in moist, shaded areas. Its bright, coin-shaped leaves form a dense mat, adding a pop of color.

Easily adaptable, this plant spreads quickly, making it a popular choice for filling gaps. Its cascading nature suits hanging baskets and wall plantings.

This perennial remains evergreen in milder climates, providing year-round interest. It’s also known for its tiny, yellow flowers in spring and summer.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 2a-4a

Pet Friendly: Yes

Moisture Preference: Average to moist

Sun Needs: Full sun to shade

Growth

Growth Rate: Fast

Average Height (feet): 0.5

Average Spread (feet): 3

Average Life Span (years): 10

Form: Spreading

Ornamental

Flower Color: Yellow

Flower Shape: Cup

Bloom Season: From late spring to mid summer

Foliage Color: Green

Foliage Shape: Round

Landscaping Your Yard With Creeping Jenny

Creeping Jenny is ideal for creating seamless transitions in garden beds. It blends well with taller plants, offering a lush undergrowth.

Incorporate it near water features or along pathways for a soft, inviting look. Its rapid growth covers unsightly bare patches effectively.

Use it to edge borders or as a lawn alternative in shady areas. Its tolerance for foot traffic makes it a versatile ground cover.

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Suitable Garden Styles

Cottage Gardens

In cottage gardens, Creeping Jenny's informal growth pattern complements classic perennials. It adds a whimsical, dense ground layer beneath roses and lavender.

Woodland Gardens

Perfect for woodland gardens, Creeping Jenny thrives under tree canopies. Its vibrant leaves contrast beautifully with ferns and hostas.

Modern Landscapes

In modern landscapes, use Creeping Jenny for a bold, monochromatic look. It pairs well with structural plants, creating striking green canvases.

Creeping Jenny Landscaping Ideas

Pair Creeping Jenny with spring bulbs for a dynamic display. As bulbs fade, its foliage fills in, maintaining continuous color.

For a water garden, let it drape over pond edges. Its reflective leaves enhance the tranquil water features.

Mix with annuals for seasonal color. Creeping Jenny’s consistency complements the changing hues of annual flowers.

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, Creeping Jenny sports bright green leaves and delicate yellow flowers. It creates a lively contrast with spring bulbs.

Summer

During summer, its foliage deepens in color, providing a lush carpet. It's particularly stunning next to water, reflecting the sunlight.

Fall

In fall, Creeping Jenny's leaves may turn a golden bronze, adding warmth. It remains dense, cushioning the fall landscape.

Winter

In milder winters, Creeping Jenny stays evergreen, offering rare winter color. Its persistence brightens the dormant garden beds.

Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Creeping Jenny flourishes in areas with ample moisture and partial to full shade. Ideal spots include damp garden corners, around ponds, or under tree canopies.

Light

This plant prefers shaded to partially shaded areas. Too much sunlight can scorch its leaves, while too little may reduce its vibrant color.

Soil

Creeping Jenny isn't picky about soil but grows best in moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from clay to sandy.

Spacing

When planting, space them about 12 to 18 inches apart. This allows room for growth while ensuring quick ground cover formation.

When to Plant

The best time to plant Creeping Jenny is in the spring or early fall. This timing allows the plant to establish itself before extreme temperatures.

How to Plant

Plant Creeping Jenny at the same depth it was in the pot. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Regular watering is crucial, especially in dry conditions. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth at the expense of flowering.

Pruning

Trim back as needed to control growth and encourage denser foliage. Pruning is especially important in areas where it might become invasive.

By Season

 

Spring Care

In spring, remove any dead foliage and apply fertilizer. This prepares Creeping Jenny for vigorous growth.

Summer Care

Monitor watering during hot periods. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool.

Fall Care

Cut back the plant to control its spread. Prepare it for winter by ensuring the soil is not too damp.

Winter Care

In colder regions, provide a light mulch layer for root protection. In milder climates, little winter care is needed.

FAQ

Is Creeping Jenny invasive?

Creeping Jenny can be invasive in some regions. It’s essential to manage its spread through regular pruning and by choosing appropriate planting locations.

Can it grow in full sun?

While it tolerates some sun, full sun can cause leaf burn. It’s best in partial shade to maintain its vibrant color.

How fast does it spread?

Creeping Jenny is a fast grower. In favorable conditions, it can quickly cover large areas, making it an excellent choice for rapid ground coverage.

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