Lysimachia minima
Lysimachia minima · Primulaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lysimachia minima: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Primulaceae
- Plant type
- Perennial herbaceous
- Adult size
- 10 to 20 cm tall
- Flowering
- June to August, yellow flowers
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 4 to 9)
- Exposure
- Part shade to shade
- Origin
- Temperate Europe
Care
Exposure
Creeping Jenny thrives in part shade or partial shade, ideally beneath trees or shrubs. It tolerates full sun in cool regions, but prefers protection from too-direct rays in summer. Avoid areas of excessive heat.
Soil
This small herbaceous plant enjoys fresh, moist, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It adapts to terrain rich in organic matter. A peaty soil or one amended with compost suits it particularly well.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during the growing period without allowing it to become waterlogged. During dry spells, water regularly so the soil doesn't dry out completely. Reduce watering in winter after the plant's rest period.
Fertilizing
An application of well-decomposed compost in spring is generally sufficient. Small herbaceous plants don't require intensive fertilization. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and cleanup
No pruning is necessary. Simply deadhead spent flowers to extend the blooming period and remove dead foliage in late autumn or early winter to encourage new growth in spring.
Health and pests
Creeping Jenny is generally very robust. It may occasionally suffer from rot in cases of excessive stagnant moisture. Ensure good drainage and provide adequate air circulation to prevent fungal problems.
Did you know?
Creeping Jenny takes its common name from its historical presence in Europe's temperate regions, where it was long used in traditional medicine. Its scientific name Lysimachia comes from Greek and literally means 'end of battle,' referring to its reputed soothing properties in ancient times. This small, discreet yellow flower remains a precious ally for gardeners seeking a hardy perennial ground cover for semi-shaded areas.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Dotted loosestrifeLysimachia punctata
- African BoxwoodMyrsine africana
- Eastern sowbreadCyclamen coum
- SowbreadCyclamen hederifolium
- Yellow loosestrifeLysimachia vulgaris
- CowslipPrimula veris
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.