Ground Ivy

Ground Ivy
Ground Ivy. Glechoma hederacea.
Lamiaceae, the mint family.

Description:
Plant: Low, creeping plant with square stems, opposite, rounded leaves, and small blue or violet axillary flowers. Perennial
Flowers: Blue to violet, bilateral, in classic "mint" shape. Lower lip prominent, lobed, purple-spotted. Upper lip much smaller. Generally in groups of 2 or 3 in leaf axils.
Leaves: Opposite, round or kidney-shaped (reniform), with rounded teeth, 1/2"-1", on distinct stem.
Fruit: Four-seeded capsule.
Blooming: May-June
Habitat: Shady lawns, wood margins, disturbed sites.

Comments: This member of the mint family, introduced from Europe, is common in shady lawns, and is often a troublesome weed. Because it spreads through underground runners (stolons) it can be difficult to eradicate.In common with many mints, it has a strong, aromatic odor when crushed or cut. Ground Ivy has a long history as a medicinal plant, being used in teas as a general tonic for colds and coughs. It seems to have some actual anti-inflammatory properties.

Where to find it: In shady lawn areas near the woods and some of the wood margins near the parking lot.