Glechoma longituba thrives in locations where it can receive dappled sunlight. This exposure simulates a natural woodland environment and supports healthy growth.

For optimal growth, the plant should be placed where it receives low to medium light intensity. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch.

Ideally, it should receive around 4 to 6 hours of indirect sunlight. This is adequate for photosynthesis while preventing overheating and dehydration.

Glechoma longituba (Glechoma longituba)

Also known as: Ground Ivy, Creeping Charlie

Houttuynia cordata is an evergreen perennial vine that thrives across eastern Asia, from tropical to temperate regions, provided it receives sufficient humidity. It features distinctive heart-shaped, scalloped leaves and small purple flowers that bloom along the leaf bases. This plant holds cultural significance in several East Asian traditions.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Glechoma longituba

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 40 cm

Spread

30-90 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

1-2 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Glechoma longituba

Quickly Identify Glechoma longituba

Look for round, scalloped leaves that are aromatic when crushed. The plant spreads through stolons. It has square stems, typical of the mint family, and small blue or purple tubular flowers.

Scientific Classification of Glechoma longituba

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Mint

Genus

Glechoma

Species

Glechoma longituba

Planting and Growing of Glechoma longituba

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Glechoma longituba?

When watering Glechoma longituba, aim to thoroughly moisten the soil without causing waterlogging. A good guideline is to provide about 200 milliliters per watering, ensuring that the soil absorbs the moisture evenly. Always feel the soil; it should be moist but not soggy or dry.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Glechoma longituba? ›

What should I do if my Glechoma longituba is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Glechoma longituba? ›

How to save an overwatered Glechoma longituba? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Glechoma longituba?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Glechoma longituba prefers partial sun to full shade. These light conditions allow the plant to perform photosynthesis while avoiding damage from overexposure.

Preferred Exposure ›

Light Intensity ›

Light Duration ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Glechoma longituba?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 77℉

Glechoma longituba thrives best in temperature ranges from 60°F to 77°F. This range mirrors the mild climates of its natural habitat, providing optimal conditions for cellular function and enzymatic processes, which are crucial for the plant's growth and development.

What Soil is Best for Glechoma longituba?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Glechoma longituba flourishes in soil that offers excellent drainage. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Well-drained soil allows roots to breathe, fostering healthy plant growth. This plant thrives in soils rich in organic matter. The addition of compost or well-rotted manure can enhance the soil's nutrient content, promoting vigorous growth and lush foliage. Glechoma longituba prefers soils that retain moderate moisture while still being well-drained. This balance ensures the roots have consistent access to water without becoming waterlogged, aiding in steady growth.

How to Fertilize Glechoma longituba?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Glechoma longituba, it is essential to apply an appropriate amount to prevent overfeeding or underfeeding. For liquid fertilizers, a diluted solution (around 1/4 of the standard concentration) works best. For slow-release granular fertilizers, apply 2-3 tablespoons per plant, ensuring that it's distributed evenly in the soil.

How to Prune Glechoma longituba?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Glechoma longituba tends to grow long and leggy if not properly maintained. To manage its shape, trim back long stems by about one-third. This not only prevents the plant from becoming unruly but also encourages bushier, more compact growth and increases its visual appeal. If your Glechoma longituba has flowered, make sure to remove the spent blooms. Deadheading not only tidies up the plant's appearance but also diverts energy back into growing healthier foliage and potentially extending the blooming period. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Glechoma longituba plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer, Late spring

The first step is to prepare a well-draining soil mix. Combining peat moss, perlite, and a bit of sand can help ensure the soil remains loose and aerated, promoting healthy root development for cuttings and seedlings.

Select a healthy branch and use sterilized pruning shears to cut a 4-6 inch section from the plant. Ensure the cut is made just below a node, and remove the leaves from the lower half to reduce moisture loss.

Once the cuttings are ready, plant them in moist soil or seed trays. Water them lightly to ensure the soil remains damp but not waterlogged, which can lead to root rot.

How to Repot Glechoma longituba plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Glechoma longituba generally needs repotting when you notice roots emerging from the drainage holes or when the growth becomes significantly slower. These are clear signs that the plant is root-bound and needs a fresh potting environment to thrive. Repotting in spring or autumn allows the plant to recover quickly and continue growing vigorously.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. This allows the roots more space to grow while preventing waterlogging. The pot should ideally be made of a breathable material such as terracotta, which facilitates better oxygen exchange for the roots and reduces the risk of root rot.

Choose a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture while allowing excess water to escape easily. A mix of peat, perlite, and standard potting soil works well. This type of soil ensures that the plant's roots are not sitting in soggy conditions, thus promoting healthy growth and vibrant foliage.