Ground Ivy

Ground Ivy, also known as Creeping Charlie, is a vigorous perennial broadleaf weed that spreads rapidly through lawns, gardens, and shaded turf areas. It belongs to the mint family, which gives it a distinctive odor when crushed. Its creeping growth habit and ability to root at each node make it especially difficult to eliminate once established.

How to Identify

Ground Ivy has rounded, scalloped-edged leaves that grow opposite each other on square stems—a signature trait of the mint family. The leaves are dark green with a shiny surface and may have purplish hues in cool weather. In spring, it produces clusters of small, funnel-shaped purple flowers. It spreads along the ground through creeping stolons that root at each node, forming thick mats that smother turfgrass.

Lifecycle

Ground Ivy is a perennial broadleaf weed that can survive year-round in mild climates. It grows most actively in the cool, moist conditions of spring and fall, often going semi-dormant in hot summer months. Its stolons enable it to spread both horizontally and vertically, allowing rapid colonization of lawns and shaded areas.

Prevention & Control

Control requires persistence due to its aggressive nature. Selective broadleaf herbicides containing triclopyr or dicamba are most effective, particularly when applied in the fall when nutrients are moving to the roots. Improving turf density, increasing sunlight penetration, and reducing excessive soil moisture all help prevent reinfestation. Hand removal can work for small patches but must include the roots and runners.