Creeping Charlie, officially known by its scientific name Glechoma hederacea, is also recognized by a variety of other common names that highlight its appearance, growth habit, or historical uses. This versatile plant, an aromatic, perennial, and evergreen creeper belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae), is quite widespread.
Common Names for Creeping Charlie
Due to its distinctive characteristics and prevalence, Glechoma hederacea has accumulated numerous alternative names over time. Many of these names reflect its creeping nature, the appearance of its leaves, or its historical presence in gardens and fields.
Here are some of the other well-known names for Creeping Charlie:
| Common Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Ground-ivy | A very common alternative, emphasizing its low-growing, spreading habit. |
| Gill-over-the-ground | Refers to its tendency to spread extensively across the ground. |
| Alehoof | An older name, possibly linked to its historical use as a bittering agent in brewing ale before hops became common. |
| Tunhoof | Similar to Alehoof, also suggesting its historical brewing connection. |
| Catsfoot | Potentially refers to the shape or softness of its leaves. |
| Field Balm | Indicating its presence in fields and its aromatic qualities, similar to other balm plants. |
| Run-away-robin | Describes its rapid and pervasive spreading growth, often seen as invasive in lawns. |
These names underscore the plant's diverse perception, from a useful herb in historical contexts to a persistent weed in modern lawns.
Understanding Glechoma hederacea
Glechoma hederacea, commonly known as Creeping Charlie, is an aromatic, perennial, and evergreen creeper from the mint family, Lamiaceae. It thrives in moist, shaded areas and is easily identified by its rounded or kidney-shaped leaves with scalloped edges and its small, purplish-blue flowers that appear in spring. While often considered a weed in gardens and lawns due to its aggressive spreading nature, it has also been valued for its traditional medicinal uses and as a groundcover in specific landscape designs.
For more detailed information about this plant, you can refer to its dedicated page on Wikipedia.
