Creeping jenny
Lysimachia nummularia · Primulaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant creeping jenny: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- May to August, cup-shaped yellow flowers
- Mature size
- 15 to 30 cm tall, trailing spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast and vigorous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Western Asia
- Soil type
- Rich, well-drained, tolerates moisture
Care
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Creeping Jenny appreciates humidity and readily establishes itself at the water's edge. During prolonged dry spells, increase watering frequency, particularly for potted plants.
Light exposure
Place your creeping Jenny in sun or partial shade. It tolerates partially shaded areas well and flowers just as generously there. In very hot climates, partial shade preserves foliage intensity.
Soil and planting
Prefer soil rich in organic matter, fresh and well-drained. Enrich the soil with compost when planting. This plant can adapt to slightly moist or even marshy soils, making it valuable for water gardens or poorly drained areas.
Pruning and training
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and prevent overgrowth. Creeping Jenny tends to form a mat, and you can cut it back in late winter to rejuvenate the clump. Remove stems that become too bare.
Fertilizing
A compost application in early spring is usually sufficient. If the plant shows signs of fatigue, you can apply a balanced diluted fertilizer once or twice during active growing period.
Diseases and pests
Creeping Jenny is very resistant. It may occasionally suffer from powdery mildew in case of stagnant humidity. Ensure good air circulation and avoid foliar watering. Pests are rare; good garden hygiene is sufficient to prevent any problems.
Did you know?
Its name 'nummularia' comes from the Latin 'nummus' (coin), as its round, flattened leaves resemble small coins lined up along the stems. In the Middle Ages, it was called 'coin herb' and featured in folk remedies for its supposed healing properties.
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
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- Eastern sowbreadCyclamen coum
- SowbreadCyclamen hederifolium
- Yellow loosestrifeLysimachia vulgaris
- CowslipPrimula veris
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.