Ground Ivy – (Geechoma hederacea) – Athair lusa

Appearance: Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea), also called creeping Charlie, is a low-growing, creeping perennial with kidney-shaped or rounded scalloped leaves. It produces small, tubular, purple to bluish-violet flowers in clusters in spring and early summer.

Growth Habit: A vigorous groundcover, it spreads via stolons (above-ground runners) and can form dense mats, typically growing 4–8 inches tall.

Cultivation: Often considered invasive, it is grown intentionally in wildflower gardens or as a medicinal herb.

Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained soil but tolerates a range of conditions, including poor soil.

Sunlight: Grows in full sun, partial shade, or full shade, but performs best in partial shade.

Watering: Requires moderate watering. Keep soil moist during establishment, though it is drought-tolerant once established.

Uses:

Culinary: Leaves are edible and mildly minty. Historically used to flavor ales (hence the name “alehoof”) or added to salads and soups.
Dyeing: Can produce a light yellow dye.
Ornamental: Occasionally used as groundcover in naturalized areas, especially where grass struggles to grow.
Medicinal: Traditionally used for respiratory ailments, kidney issues, and digestive complaints. Known for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and astringent properties. Often used in herbal teas or poultices for wounds.

Maintenance: Low-maintenance but can be invasive. Regular trimming or pulling is necessary to control spread. Ideal for erosion control but not suited for formal gardens unless contained.