Golden Moneywort, scientifically known as Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’, is a popular perennial known for its vibrant, golden-chartreuse foliage and low-growing, creeping habit. Also called Golden Creeping Jenny or Moneywort, its small, rounded leaves resemble coins, inspiring its common names. It forms a dense mat, typically 2-4 inches tall, with spreading stems.
Outdoor Cultivation and Growth Habits
Golden Moneywort thrives in various outdoor settings, a versatile choice for gardeners. For the most intense golden color, plant it in full sun, although it tolerates partial shade where leaves appear more chartreuse. In hotter climates, providing some afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorching. It thrives in consistently moist to wet soil, often flourishing where other groundcovers struggle. It prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil but adapts to different types, tolerating wet areas like pond edges.
Its fast-growing, low-lying nature means stems readily root where they touch the soil, creating a thick mat. It makes an excellent groundcover, filling bare areas and suppressing weeds. It is also used as a “spiller” in containers and hanging baskets, cascading gracefully. While the species Lysimachia nummularia can be aggressive and invasive in some regions, the ‘Aurea’ cultivar is generally less aggressive. Still, its spread can be enthusiastic, so monitor growth and check local invasive species regulations.
Golden Moneywort as an Aquatic Plant
Golden Moneywort also adapts well to aquatic environments, suitable for aquariums and water gardens. It can be grown either fully submerged or partially submerged, often seen in flooded natural habitats. In aquariums, it serves as a background plant, providing oxygenation and hiding places for fish and fry.
For optimal aquatic growth, moderate to high lighting is beneficial; CO2 supplementation encourages vigorous growth. It can grow in various substrates, including gravel, but aquarium plant soil covered with sand is ideal. Its moderate aquatic growth rate requires regular trimming to manage size and maintain tank aesthetics.
Propagating Golden Moneywort
Propagating Golden Moneywort is a straightforward process, primarily through stem cuttings or division. For cuttings, select healthy stems and cut below a leaf node, ensuring several leaves. Cuttings can be rooted in water, with roots emerging from nodes within a week or two, then transplanted into soil or directly into an aquarium.
Alternatively, cuttings can be inserted directly into moist potting soil, or stems pressed into the ground to encourage rooting. Division involves separating established clumps, ensuring each new section has some roots attached. This method expands existing plantings or allows sharing.
Managing Potential Issues
While Golden Moneywort is generally resilient, managing its vigorous growth is a main consideration. Its spreading nature can outcompete other plants if not contained. Planting in containers or using physical barriers controls spread, especially where invasiveness is a concern. Regular trimming maintains its shape and prevents overrunning neighboring plants.
Despite its preference for moist conditions, Golden Moneywort can be susceptible to root rot if the soil remains waterlogged or stagnant, particularly in poorly drained conditions. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and general plant decline. Ensuring adequate drainage and avoiding excessive watering are important preventive measures. It typically resists pests and diseases, though slugs may occasionally cause minor foliage damage.