Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia), also known as moneywort due to its small, coin-shaped leaves, is a popular perennial groundcover. This low-growing plant forms a dense, spreading mat of bright, often chartreuse, foliage. Gardeners often choose Creeping Jenny to quickly fill spaces and create a lush, vibrant green or golden carpet.
Creeping Jenny’s Flowering Habits
Creeping Jenny produces small, cup-shaped, bright yellow flowers that appear along the stems from late spring through early summer, sometimes extending into fall. The flowers are about three-quarters of an inch across. While the plant flowers, its blooms are subtle and not the primary ornamental feature compared to its vibrant foliage. Some varieties, like ‘Aurea’, have less conspicuous flowers, as their yellow blooms blend with the golden foliage or they flower less consistently. The main appeal of Creeping Jenny lies in its trailing growth habit and colorful leaves rather than its floral display.
Understanding Why Creeping Jenny May Not Flower
Several factors can influence whether Creeping Jenny produces blooms. Light conditions play a significant role. While the plant tolerates partial shade, full sun exposure encourages more prolific flowering and enhances the golden color of the foliage in cultivars like ‘Aurea’. However, too much intense afternoon sun in hot climates can stress the plant, potentially causing leaves to blanch and affecting flowering. Conversely, deep shade inhibits blooming, leading to sparser growth and darker green leaves.
Soil quality and consistent moisture levels also influence flowering. Creeping Jenny prefers moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. If the soil dries out too frequently, or if the plant experiences drought stress, it may prioritize survival over flower production. While it thrives in consistently damp conditions, waterlogged soil can lead to root problems, indirectly affecting the plant’s overall health and ability to flower. Plant maturity is another factor; younger plants may not flower as profusely as established ones, and some cultivars inherently produce fewer flowers or bloom less consistently, favoring foliage development.
Cultivating Creeping Jenny for Optimal Growth
Maintaining healthy Creeping Jenny plants involves providing appropriate growing conditions. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and can even tolerate wet conditions, making them suitable for areas near water features. Consistent watering is important, especially during dry periods, as the plant prefers its soil to remain damp; however, avoid overwatering to the point of sogginess. A general rule is to water every 2-3 days in hot, dry weather and reduce frequency in cooler months.
Creeping Jenny benefits from occasional fertilization to support vigorous growth. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio like 10-10-10 in early spring provides essential nutrients for lush foliage and potential blooms. It serves as an effective groundcover, suppressing weeds and controlling soil erosion. Its trailing habit makes it an excellent choice for containers, hanging baskets, or cascading over walls, where its vibrant foliage can spill attractively. Regular pruning helps manage its spreading nature and maintains its desired shape.