Glechoma hederacea

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Glechoma hederacea

Also known as: Ground Ivy, Aleroot

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer, Soil

Format: Smal

Height: 0.20 m

Width: 1.00 m

Growth Rate: -

Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 3-10

Soil Moisture:
Moist

Soil:
Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Condiment, Tea

Edibility:
(2)

Medicinal:
(3)

Features:
Bee plant, Ground cover

Description

Young leaves of the ground-ivy plant can be eaten both raw and cooked. They have a somewhat bitter taste and are perfect for salads. Additionally, they can also be used in dishes instead of spinach or as a seasoning, such as in soups. These leaves can be harvested early in the year and are ideal for making herbal tea, both fresh and dried. They are often mixed with verbena leaves. Furthermore, the herbs can be added to beer as a substitute for hops, which was the most common method of brewing beer before the 16th century.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/03

End of Harvest: 31/10

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Corylus avellana Hazel	Hazelnut trees provide a strong structure for Glechoma to vine over, improving its light exposure while the Glechoma adds ground cover and suppresses weeds.
Eriobotrya japonica Loquat	The loquat tree provides shade, which benefits Glechoma during the hotter months, while Glechoma helps retain moisture in the soil.
Prunus avium Sweet cherry	Sweet cherry trees provide a backdrop for Glechoma to thrive, while Glechoma helps prevent soil erosion under the tree.
Salix fragilis Crack Willow	Willow trees, with their high moisture needs, create a suitable environment for Glechoma, promoting its growth and providing a habitat for beneficial insects.
Ulex europaeus Gorse	Gorse provides a natural protective barrier, while Glechoma can benefit from the nitrogen-fixing ability of Gorse, improving soil fertility.
Lonicera periclymenum Honeysuckle, European honeysuckle	Honeysuckle creates a fragrant environment that attracts pollinators for Glechoma, while also providing vertical growth support.