Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)

Creeping Jenny

Lysimachia nummularia

Its trailing golden foliage spills like sunlit honey over edges. Low-growing perennial groundcover; common names: moneywort, creeping jenny.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect to partial direct sunlight; golden foliage cultivars require more direct sun to retain their vibrant color
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C, tolerates cool to temperate conditions; avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 28°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Round, bright green (or golden cultivar) leaves in opposite arrangement on trailing stems
  • Flower: Star-shaped, bright yellow, 5-petaled blooms held above foliage
  • Stem: Slender, creeping stems that root at nodes when in contact with moist soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; increase watering frequency during hot, dry spells

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to support dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to enhance foliage color and growth
Pruning
  • Trim back overgrown trailing stems in early spring to maintain a compact, tidy shape
  • Remove dead or yellowing foliage regularly to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
  • Pinch stem tips to encourage bushier growth and prevent leggy trailing
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, hanging baskets, or water edge plantings; erosion control on slopes