Overview

Also known as ground ivy or creeping Jenny, creeping Charlie is a perennial, evergreen creeper in the mint family that loves moist, shady areas. Used by the ancient Saxons for brewing beer, it was brought to this country from Europe for medicinal purposes. It's now found all across the country, except in the Rocky Mountain states. It spreads mainly by stolons (stems that creep over the ground), though it can also spread by seed. Left unchecked, it can form thick mats in the lawn.

Creeping charlie has kidney-shaped, bright green leaves with scalloped edges. In the springtime, it produces purple-blue flowers. When crushed, it produces a minty scent.

Prevention and Maintenance

Early in the spring, you can control creeping Charlie with Scotts® Turf Builder® Triple Action, which will also prevent listed grassy and broadleaf weeds and feed your lawn at the same time. If you don't catch Creeping Charlie until late in the spring or early summer, though, choose Scotts® Turf Builder® Weed & Feed3 to bring it (and other listed weeds) under control while nourishing your grass. While creeping Charlie is often found in the lawn, you might also find it in other parts of the yard, such as under trees and in garden plots. It prefers damp, shaded areas but will also grow in full sun.