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Ground Ivy Glechoma hederacea

By , About.com Guide

Ground Ivy <i>Glechoma hederacea</i>

Ground Ivy

photo © Kaldari/Public Domain

Appearance:

Member of the mint family, also known as creeping charlie, has bright green, rounded, scalloped leaves on square stems. Small, purple flowers appear from early spring through summer.

See botanical illustration

Growth:

Originally meant as a shade loving ground cover, this prostrate creeping perennial spreads quickly with above ground runners which root easily at each node. Prefers moist, shady areas.

Physical Control:

Presence of ground ivy could indicate poor drainage or wet conditions. Improve drainage and water sparingly to promote turf growth. To control existing plants, rake to expose the runners and mow as low as possible.

Chemical Control:

Spot spray with post-emergent broadleaf herbicide containing triclopyr, clopyralid, or 2,4-D, MCPP, and dicamba.

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