Lysimachia nummularia, commonly known as Creeping Jenny or Moneywort, is a perennial plant in the Primulaceae family, native to Europe and parts of Asia. It’s widely appreciated in both ornamental gardening and as a ground cover in landscaping due to its vibrant green foliage and spreading nature. Below are some detailed characteristics of Lysimachia nummularia:

Appearance

• Foliage: Creeping Jenny has small, round, or kidney-shaped leaves that are bright green, though some varieties can have golden or chartreuse-colored leaves, providing a striking contrast in gardens or landscapes.

• Height and Spread: The plant typically grows to about 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) in height, but it spreads extensively by creeping along the ground. It can form dense mats, which makes it a great ground cover or filler in garden beds.

• Flowers: In late spring to early summer, Creeping Jenny produces small, bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers, which are usually around 1–2 cm across. While they’re not as prominent as the foliage, they add a pleasant splash of color.

Habitat

• Native Range: Creeping Jenny is native to parts of Europe and Asia, often found in damp, woodland areas, along streams, and in moist meadows.

• Growing Conditions: It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a variety of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It’s adaptable but does best in moist, fertile environments.

Growth and Care

• Spreading: One of the plant’s key features is its ability to spread rapidly through creeping stems. It’s often used in garden beds, hanging baskets, and containers to provide a lush, green carpet-like appearance.

• Propagation: It’s easy to propagate Creeping Jenny by dividing its spreading stems or by taking cuttings. It’s also very low maintenance and doesn’t require regular pruning, though cutting back any overgrown or unwanted runners will help maintain its shape.

• Pests and Diseases: Creeping Jenny is generally hardy and resistant to most pests and diseases, although it can sometimes be susceptible to root rot in overly wet or poorly-drained soils.

Uses

• Ground Cover: Due to its spreading nature, Lysimachia nummularia is often used as a ground cover plant to quickly fill in areas and prevent weed growth. It’s particularly useful in shaded or moist areas.

• Ornamental Value: Its vibrant green or yellow foliage makes it a popular choice in gardens, especially for creating contrast against darker green plants. It can be used in hanging baskets, container gardens, or as an edging plant in flower beds.

• Water Gardens: Creeping Jenny can also be used in water gardens, where it thrives at the edges of ponds or streams, making it suitable for moist or slightly submerged areas.

Additional Information

• Invasive Potential: In some regions, Lysimachia nummularia can become invasive, especially in moist or wetland areas, where it may outcompete native vegetation. It’s important to keep its growth in check in the garden to prevent unwanted spreading.

• Hardiness: Creeping Jenny is hardy in USDA zones 3–9, meaning it can tolerate a variety of climates, from cooler temperate regions to warmer zones.

Overall, Lysimachia nummularia is a versatile and attractive plant known for its spreading nature, bright foliage, and resilience, making it a favorite for gardeners looking to create lush, ground-covering greenery in a variety of settings.