Moneywort, or creeping Jenny, is a fast growing ground cover. This plant should be used with care. In some states it is considered invasive.
Size and Method of spreading:
Moneywort is a low-growing plant, reaching only 2 to 3 inches tall. It is a trailing-rooting ground cover. Trailing-rooting ground covers have trailing stems that spread out from a central root system. These stems spread out horizontally over the ground and can root where they come in contact with the soil. New shoots will be formed at the point where rooting occurs.
Native geographic location and habitat:
This plant is native to Europe.
Leaf description:
The opposite leaves are small (about 3/4 inch) and nearly round in outline, with entire margins. The leaves of the species are green, but commonly sold cultivars feature yellow leaves.
Flower description:
The small, yellow flowers appear in early summer. They have five petals and are about the same size as the leaves.
Fruit description:
The fruits are small capsules and are not ornamentally important.
Plant care:
Moneywort grows best in partial to full shade. It will grow in sunny sites if given a consistent supply of water. Avoid dry sites.
List of pests, diseases, and tolerances:
There are no common serious disease or insect problems for this plant. This is an aggressive grower and has become invasive in some states.
Golden Moneywort (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’):
This cultivar has yellow leaves.
Goldilocks Moneywort (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Goldilocks’):
This cultivar has yellow leaves.
