Full Sun
Easy care
Light watering
Half-hardy
3a-9b
USDA zone
-40°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1m | Max | 90cm |
30cm | Min | 60cm |
1 years to reach maturity
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Ground Elder
Ground Elder Overview
Ground Elder is a perennial weed that was originally grown as a medicinal plant by the Romans to treat illnesses such as gout but has since become a weed due to its invasive nature and its ability to smother young plants.
Common problems with Ground Elder
Leaf Blight.
How to harvest Ground Elder
Not usually harvested.
How to propagate Ground Elder
Rhizomes
Seed
Scatter seed onto moist soil or compost.
Division
Divide rhizomes in spring or autumn.
Special features of Ground Elder
Ground cover
Attracts bees
Other uses of Ground Elder
This species is mostly grown for its attractive ivy-shaped leaves. Some people consider this plant as ideal ground cover, while others may consider it as a pernicious weed. A potentially good plant for edging paths because of its low spreading habit. For use in the cutting bed, as well as in traditional herbal medicine for digestive complaints.
Medicinal
The herb was used by the Romans to treat gout and similar illnesses.
Edible
The young fresh shoots are edible in salads. Though it is advised that correct identification is made as there are very several similar looking toxic plants.