Glechoma hederacea
Ground Ivy, Aleroot
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Glechoma hederacea.
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist
Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Partial shade, Full sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Condiment, Tea
Bee forage, 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.