About Creeping Charlie
Creeping Charlie Introduction
Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea) is a perennial evergreen creeper of the mint family, native to Europe and southwestern Asia. This vigorous ground cover is known for its ability to spread rapidly, forming dense mats of foliage in shady areas.
The plant features round to kidney-shaped leaves with scalloped edges, typically 2-3 cm in diameter. These leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along square stems that root at the nodes, allowing the plant to spread horizontally. In spring and early summer, Creeping Charlie produces small, tubular flowers that are usually lavender to blue in color.
Despite its attractive appearance and sweet, minty fragrance when crushed, Creeping Charlie is often considered a troublesome weed in many parts of North America. Its aggressive growth habit can quickly overtake lawns and gardens, outcompeting other plants for resources. However, in some contexts, it is valued as a low-maintenance ground cover for shady areas where grass struggles to grow.
Creeping Charlie Care & Growing Guide
Caring for Creeping Charlie is relatively straightforward, as it is a hardy and adaptable plant. However, if you’re intentionally cultivating it, there are some key factors to consider for optimal growth and to prevent it from becoming invasive.
Firstly, Creeping Charlie thrives in moist, shady conditions. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers rich, well-draining soil. While it can grow in full sun, it performs best in partial to full shade. Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization is generally not necessary for Creeping Charlie, as it is a vigorous grower even in poor soil conditions. In fact, over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and spread. If you do choose to fertilize, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
The most crucial aspect of Creeping Charlie care is containment. If you’re growing it intentionally, consider planting it in an area bordered by hardscaping or in containers to prevent it from spreading to unwanted areas. Regular pruning and removal of runners can also help control its spread. Be aware that in many regions, Creeping Charlie is considered invasive, so check local regulations before planting.
Soil
Creeping Charlie prefers moist, rich, well-draining soil but is adaptable to various soil types. The ideal pH range is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, although the plant can tolerate some waterlogging.
The soil composition significantly affects Creeping Charlie’s health and growth. While it can grow in poor soil, it thrives in nutrient-rich environments. Adding organic matter like compost can improve soil structure and fertility, promoting healthier growth.
Soil problems that can affect Creeping Charlie include:
1. Poor drainage: Can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
2. Compaction: Restricts root growth and water penetration.
3. Inappropriate pH: Extreme acidity or alkalinity can limit nutrient availability.
4. Salt build-up: Can occur from over-fertilization or hard water, causing leaf burn.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: While rare, can cause yellowing leaves or stunted growth.
6. Root boundness: In container plants, can restrict growth and nutrient uptake.
To address these issues, ensure proper drainage, aerate compacted soil, adjust pH if necessary, flush salts with thorough watering, and repot container plants as needed.
Fertilizer
Creeping Charlie is a vigorous grower that doesn’t typically require much fertilization, especially when grown in nutrient-rich soil. However, a light application of fertilizer can promote healthier growth and more abundant flowering.
Recommended mixture: A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-5-5 is suitable.
Optimal schedule: If fertilizing, do so in early spring as new growth begins, and optionally again in mid-summer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to prevent encouraging tender new growth before winter.
Signs of over-fertilization:
– Excessive, leggy growth
– Burned or crispy leaf edges
– Wilting despite adequate watering
– Buildup of white crust on soil surface
Signs of under-fertilization:
– Pale or yellowing leaves
– Slow or stunted growth
– Fewer flowers than usual
Organic fertilizer alternatives:
– Compost tea
– Well-rotted manure
– Seaweed extract
Specific nutrient requirements:
Creeping Charlie doesn’t have any notable specific nutrient requirements. However, like most plants, it benefits from a balance of nitrogen (for leaf growth), phosphorus (for root development and flowering), and potassium (for overall plant health).
Common deficiencies:
– Nitrogen deficiency can cause overall yellowing of leaves
– Phosphorus deficiency might result in purple tinges on leaves
– Potassium deficiency can cause leaf edges to brown
Remember, it’s generally better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize Creeping Charlie, as excessive nutrients can lead to rampant growth that’s difficult to control.
Watering
Creeping Charlie prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, it’s better to water deeply and less frequently rather than providing frequent shallow watering.
Water quality preferences: Creeping Charlie is not particularly fussy about water quality and can tolerate both tap water and rainwater. However, if your tap water is very hard or chlorinated, using rainwater or filtered water can be beneficial.
Signs of underwatering include wilting, curling leaves, and slowed growth. The soil may appear dry and cracked.
Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, soft or mushy stems near the soil line, and a general appearance of poor health. The soil may smell musty or appear waterlogged.
Watering needs change seasonally:
– Spring and Summer: Water more frequently as the plant is actively growing.
– Fall: Reduce watering as growth slows.
– Winter: Water sparingly, only when the soil is dry several inches down.
During periods of active growth or in hot weather, Creeping Charlie may require more frequent watering. In containers, it may need more frequent watering than in-ground plants due to faster soil drying.
Lighting
Creeping Charlie thrives in partial to full shade conditions, making it an excellent ground cover for areas where many other plants struggle. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in cooler climates, but generally prefers dappled or filtered light.
Signs of insufficient light include elongated stems, smaller leaves, and reduced overall growth. The plant may also produce fewer flowers. In extreme cases of low light, the foliage may become pale or yellowish.
Excessive light exposure can cause leaf scorching, particularly in hot climates. The leaves may turn brown or develop crispy edges, and the plant’s growth may slow down as it struggles to conserve moisture.
To adjust lighting if natural conditions are suboptimal:
1. For low light: Consider moving potted plants closer to windows or to brighter areas. In gardens, selective pruning of overhead trees can increase light penetration.
2. For excessive light: Use shade cloth or move container plants to more sheltered areas. In gardens, consider planting taller companion plants to provide some shade.
Temperature
Creeping Charlie thrives in moderate temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60Β°F to 75Β°F (15Β°C to 24Β°C).
Creeping Charlie can tolerate temperature fluctuations quite well, which contributes to its adaptability and invasive nature in many regions. However, extreme temperatures can stress the plant.
Cold sensitivity: While generally cold-hardy, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20Β°F (-6Β°C) can damage the foliage. In colder regions, the plant may die back in winter but will usually regrow from the roots in spring.
Heat sensitivity: Temperatures consistently above 85Β°F (29Β°C) can stress the plant, especially if combined with direct sunlight and dry conditions.
Tips for temperature management:
1. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to protect from the most intense heat.
2. In cold climates, a layer of mulch can help protect the roots during winter.
3. If growing indoors, keep away from cold drafts and heat sources like radiators.
4. During heatwaves, increase watering frequency and provide extra shade if possible.
5. In containers, consider moving plants to more suitable locations during extreme weather conditions.
Humidity
Creeping Charlie is adaptable to a range of humidity levels but generally prefers moderate to high humidity. In its natural habitat, it often grows in areas with consistent moisture in the air.
Preferred humidity levels: 40-60% relative humidity
To increase humidity:
1. Mist the leaves regularly with water
2. Use a pebble tray filled with water placed near the plant
3. Group plants together to create a microclimate
4. Use a humidifier in dry indoor environments
To decrease humidity:
1. Improve air circulation with fans
2. Reduce watering frequency slightly
3. Avoid overcrowding plants
Symptoms of low humidity stress:
– Crispy or brown leaf edges
– Curling leaves
– Slowed growth
– Increased susceptibility to pests like spider mites
Symptoms of high humidity stress:
– Fungal growth on leaves or soil surface
– Soft, mushy growth
– Increased risk of root rot
For Creeping Charlie, pebble trays and grouping plants are often effective and low-maintenance methods to increase humidity. Misting can be beneficial but needs to be done regularly to have a significant impact. Humidifiers are very effective but may be more suitable for indoor environments where Creeping Charlie is grown as a houseplant.
Propagation
Creeping Charlie is easily propagated through several methods. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Stem Cuttings:
Step 1: Cut a 4-6 inch section of healthy stem, ensuring it has several leaf nodes.
Step 2: Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting.
Step 3: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional but can increase success rate).
Step 4: Plant the cutting in moist, well-draining potting mix.
Step 5: Keep the soil consistently moist and place in a bright, indirect light location.
Step 6: Roots should develop in 2-3 weeks.
2. Division:
Step 1: Dig up an established plant in spring or fall.
Step 2: Gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each has healthy roots and stems.
Step 3: Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing before.
Step 4: Water thoroughly and keep soil moist until new growth appears.
3. Layering:
Step 1: Identify a long stem that can reach the ground.
Step 2: Make a small wound on the underside of the stem where it touches the soil.
Step 3: Pin this section to the ground with a U-shaped wire or small rock.
Step 4: Keep the soil consistently moist.
Step 5: Once roots develop (usually in 3-4 weeks), cut the new plant from the parent and transplant.
Comparison of success rates:
– Stem cuttings: High success rate, especially with rooting hormone.
– Division: Very high success rate, as you’re working with already established plants.
– Layering: High success rate, but slower than other methods.
Best time to propagate: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Establishment time:
– Stem cuttings: 4-6 weeks to establish roots, another 4-6 weeks for significant growth.
– Division: Establishes quickly, usually showing new growth within 2-3 weeks.
– Layering: 3-4 weeks for roots to develop, another 2-3 weeks after transplanting for establishment.
Remember, Creeping Charlie is considered invasive in many areas, so propagate responsibly and contain its spread.
Potting
Potting and repotting requirements for Creeping Charlie:
Pot type: Choose a wide, shallow container with adequate drainage holes. Terracotta or plastic pots are both suitable.
Drainage needs: Excellent drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Add a layer of gravel or broken pottery shards at the bottom of the pot to improve drainage.
Repotting frequency: Creeping Charlie grows quickly and may need repotting every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound.
Ideal soil composition: Use a well-draining potting mix. A combination of 2 parts general-purpose potting soil, 1 part perlite, and 1 part compost works well.
Signs that indicate repotting is needed:
1. Roots growing out of drainage holes
2. Plant drying out quickly despite regular watering
3. Slowed growth or yellowing leaves
4. Pot feels light when lifted
5. Soil level has sunken significantly
Root pruning: When repotting, you can trim up to 1/3 of the roots to control growth. Use clean, sharp scissors and remove any dead or rotting roots.
Transitioning to a new pot:
1. Water the plant thoroughly a day before repotting.
2. Gently remove the plant from its current pot.
3. Loosen the root ball and trim if necessary.
4. Place fresh potting mix in the new container.
5. Position the plant at the same depth it was growing before.
6. Fill in with more potting mix, firming gently.
7. Water thoroughly and place in a shaded area for a few days to reduce transplant shock.
Special considerations:
– Don’t increase pot size too drastically; go up only 1-2 inches in diameter.
– After repotting, monitor closely for signs of stress and adjust care as needed.
– Consider using a pot with a saucer to catch excess water and prevent it from spreading to unwanted areas.
Pruning
Pruning Needs and Techniques for Creeping Charlie
Best Time for Pruning
Prune Creeping Charlie in early spring before new growth begins, or throughout the growing season to control its spread.
Frequency
Prune as needed to control growth, typically every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Purpose
Pruning helps control the plant’s spread, promotes bushier growth, removes damaged or diseased parts, and can improve air circulation.
Tools
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. For larger areas, a string trimmer can be effective.
Step-by-Step Pruning Guide
1. Inspect the plant and identify areas that need pruning.
2. Clean your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent disease spread.
3. Cut back long runners to control spread, trimming them close to the main plant body.
4. Remove any yellowed, damaged, or diseased foliage.
5. Trim the plant to maintain desired shape and size, cutting just above a leaf node.
6. For severe overgrowth, you can cut the entire plant back to about 2 inches above the soil.
7. Dispose of trimmings carefully to prevent unintentional spread.
Preparation
Water the plant thoroughly a day before pruning to reduce stress.
Aftercare
Water the plant lightly after pruning and monitor for any signs of stress. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength to encourage new growth.
Special Considerations
– Be cautious when pruning near other plants to avoid damaging them.
– In regions where Creeping Charlie is invasive, dispose of trimmings in sealed bags to prevent spread.
– If using Creeping Charlie as a ground cover, regular trimming of edges will help maintain a neat appearance and prevent it from invading other areas.
Blooming
Creeping Charlie typically blooms from April to June, with the peak blooming period in May. The flowers are small, tubular, and usually lavender to blue in color, although they can sometimes be pink or white. Each flower lasts for several days, and the plant can continue producing new flowers throughout the blooming period. Optimal conditions for blooming include partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. The flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Aphids
Spider mites
Slugs and snails
Symptoms
Aphids: Clusters of small insects on stems and leaves, sticky residue, curled or distorted leaves
Spider mites: Fine webbing on leaves, stippled or yellowing leaves, leaf drop
Slugs and snails: Holes in leaves, slime trails
Treatment
Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, introduce natural predators like ladybugs
Spider mites: Increase humidity, spray leaves with water, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil
Slugs and snails: Hand-pick at night, use beer traps, apply diatomaceous earth around plants
Diseases
Common issues
Root rot
Powdery mildew
Leaf spot
Symptoms
Root rot: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, soft or mushy stems near soil line
Powdery mildew: White powdery coating on leaves, stunted growth
Leaf spot: Brown or black spots on leaves, yellowing leaves
Treatment
Root rot: Improve drainage, reduce watering, remove affected parts, repot in fresh soil if necessary
Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply fungicide if severe
Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves, avoid overhead watering, apply copper-based fungicide if severe
Special Features
Creeping Charlie has several unique features. Its aromatic leaves release a minty scent when crushed, making it historically used in herbal medicine and brewing. The plant’s rapid growth and ability to form dense mats make it an excellent ground cover for shady areas where grass struggles. Its small, delicate flowers are attractive to pollinators, particularly bees.
Plant Benefits
Creeping Charlie has been used in traditional herbal medicine for various purposes. It has been employed as a diuretic, astringent, and mild stimulant. Some herbalists have used it to treat respiratory issues, arthritis, and skin conditions. The leaves are edible and have been used in salads or brewed into a tea. However, it’s important to note that large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset, and its medicinal use is not widely supported by modern scientific research. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any plant for medicinal purposes.
Additional Information
While Creeping Charlie is often considered a weed, it has historical significance. In medieval Europe, it was used to clarify and flavor beer before the widespread use of hops. Its common name ‘Alehoof’ refers to this practice. In some cultures, it’s still used to make herbal teas. Despite its invasive tendencies, Creeping Charlie can be beneficial in erosion control on slopes or in areas where other plants struggle to grow.
Life Cycle
Creeping Charlie is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years. It begins its growth cycle in early spring, with new shoots emerging from the soil or from overwintered stems. The plant grows rapidly through spring and summer, producing flowers typically from April to June. After flowering, it continues to spread vegetatively through runners (stolons) that root at nodes, allowing it to cover large areas quickly. In late fall, growth slows down, but in milder climates, the plant remains evergreen. In colder regions, above-ground parts may die back, but the plant survives winter through its root system, ready to regrow in spring. This vigorous life cycle and growth pattern contribute to its reputation as an invasive species in many areas.
Are Creeping Charlie Poisonous, Toxic
Creeping Charlie is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities. The toxic compounds include essential oils and terpenoids. All parts of the plant are potentially harmful, but the leaves contain the highest concentration of toxic substances. Symptoms of toxicity in pets may include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. While rarely severe, it’s best to prevent pets from consuming large amounts of this plant. If ingestion is suspected, monitor your pet closely and consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen. For children, the plant is generally considered non-toxic, but consumption should still be discouraged as it may cause mild stomach upset. To prevent accidental ingestion, consider removing the plant from areas frequented by pets or small children, or use barriers to restrict access.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How do I get rid of Creeping Charlie in my lawn?
- To remove Creeping Charlie, you can use herbicides containing triclopyr or dicamba, manually pull it out ensuring you remove all roots, or smother it with cardboard or plastic for several weeks to kill it.
-
Is Creeping Charlie invasive?
- Yes, Creeping Charlie is considered invasive in many areas, particularly in North America. It can quickly spread and outcompete native plants.
-
Can Creeping Charlie be used as a ground cover?
- While it can be used as a ground cover in shady areas where grass struggles to grow, its invasive nature makes it a controversial choice. Use with caution and check local regulations.
-
Is Creeping Charlie poisonous to dogs?
- Creeping Charlie is mildly toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. It can cause gastrointestinal upset, but severe poisoning is rare.
-
What does Creeping Charlie look like?
- Creeping Charlie has round to kidney-shaped leaves with scalloped edges, typically 2-3 cm in diameter. It produces small, lavender to blue flowers in spring and early summer.
-
Does Creeping Charlie have any benefits?
- While often considered a weed, Creeping Charlie can be beneficial for erosion control, as a ground cover in shady areas, and has been used historically in herbal medicine and brewing.
-
How fast does Creeping Charlie spread?
- Creeping Charlie can spread rapidly, especially in favorable conditions. It can grow up to 30 cm per year through its creeping stems that root at nodes.
-
Can I eat Creeping Charlie?
- While Creeping Charlie is edible and has been used in salads and teas, it’s not commonly consumed. Large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset. Always consult an expert before consuming wild plants.
-
Does Creeping Charlie prefer sun or shade?
- Creeping Charlie prefers partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun. It often thrives in areas where grass struggles due to insufficient light.
-
How deep do Creeping Charlie roots go?
- Creeping Charlie has a shallow root system, typically extending only about 2-3 inches into the soil. However, its ability to root at stem nodes allows it to spread widely across the ground surface.
Can I grow Creeping Charlie indoors
Difficulty
Easy
Size
Small to Medium
Light
Low to Medium
Water
Medium
Flowering
Yes
Pet Safe
No
Air Purifier
Low
Glechoma hederacea botanical details
Common Name
Creeping Charlie
Other Common Names
Ground Ivy, Gill-over-the-ground, Alehoof, Tunhoof, Catsfoot, Field Balm
Botanical Name
Glechoma hederacea
Native Area
Europe and southwestern Asia
Family Name
Lamiaceae
Plant Type
Perennial herbaceous plant
Genus
Glechoma
Kingdom
Plantae
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Is there anything else you can tell me?
Why did the Creeping Charlie cross the garden? Because it couldn’t stop spreading the news!