Creeping jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)

Also known as: Two penny grass, Running jenny

The plant known as herb twopence or twopenny grass is botanically named *Lysimachia nummularia*, which translates to "resembling a coin." Often referred to as creeping jenny, this versatile plant is ideal for use as a ground cover and thrives in bog gardens.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Creeping jenny

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

5 cm

Spread

30 cm to 45 cm

Leaf Color

Green Yellow

Flower Size

2 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Gold

Images of Creeping jenny

Quickly Identify Creeping jenny

Forms dense, mat-like growth habit.

Small, cup-shaped yellow flowers with red dots.

Leaves are nearly circular with a glossy finish.

Stems are slender, green, and produce roots at leaf nodes.

Opposite pairs of roundish leaves with subtle vein patterns.

Scientific Classification of Creeping jenny

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Heathers and allies

Family

Primrose

Genus

Loosestrifes

Species

Creeping jenny

Planting and Growing of Creeping jenny

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 6 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

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 Creeping jenny?

For Lysimachia nummularia, ensure that you water it until the soil is thoroughly moistened but not waterlogged. Around 250 ml per watering session is typically sufficient for a medium-sized pot. This quantity ensures that water penetrates deep into the soil, reaching the roots without creating excess runoff.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Creeping jenny? ›

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Creeping jenny? ›

How to save an overwatered Creeping jenny? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Creeping jenny?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2-6 hours daily

Lysimachia nummularia grows best in partial sun conditions, allowing it to receive soft sunlight while being protected from intense heat. This ideal range helps in maintaining healthy foliage and robust growth.

What is the best lighting condition for Lysimachia nummularia? ›

How can I provide ideal light conditions? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Creeping jenny?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth, Lysimachia nummularia thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. This range provides the perfect environment for photosynthesis and metabolic activities, fostering vibrant foliage and healthy development.

What Soil is Best for Creeping jenny?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Lysimachia nummularia thrives in well-drained soil that allows for adequate air circulation around the roots. This condition helps prevent root rot and ensures the plant's healthy growth. While good drainage is essential, the soil should retain some moisture to mimic this plant’s natural damp habitats. This balance of moisture is crucial for continuous growth and vibrant foliage. The plant benefits from soil that is rich in organic matter. Nutrient-rich soils promote vigorous growth, lush leaves, and more robust overall plant health. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Creeping jenny?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Lysimachia nummularia, commonly known as creeping jenny, benefits from a moderate amount of fertilizer. When applying liquid fertilizer, dilute the solution to about half the strength recommended for general houseplants. If using slow-release granules, a light sprinkle over the soil surface will suffice, ensuring not to overwhelm the root system. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Creeping jenny?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying stems that are old, damaged, or excessively long. These can be cut back to a healthy lateral branch or to the base, encouraging new, vigorous growth. Prune the plant to maintain its desired shape, whether it's as a ground cover or in a hanging basket. Trim back any stems that are straying from the main growth pattern to keep it neat. Remove any spent flowers by cutting them off at the base of the bloom. This not only improves the plant's appearance but can also direct energy back into growth rather than seed production. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Creeping jenny plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose a healthy Lysimachia nummularia plant to take cuttings. Ensure the plant is disease-free and vibrant, as cuttings from a healthy plant have a better chance of successful rooting.

Use your pruning shears to take a 4-6 inch cutting from the tip of a healthy stem. Ensure the cut is made just below a leaf node, as this is where roots are likely to develop.

Dab the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to encourage root growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Creeping jenny plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Lysimachia nummularia needs repotting when the roots start crowding and appear from the pot's drainage holes, indicating limited space. Additionally, if the soil becomes compacted or waterlogged, it's time for a fresh start. Spring or early summer are ideal for giving your plant a new home, ensuring robust growth during the active months.

Select a pot one size larger with good drainage to prevent root rot and soil sogginess. The pot's material, like terracotta, allows for moisture evaporation while maintaining structure. Prioritizing drainage benefits avoids root diseases, ensuring the plant's prosperous growth and vibrancy.

Opt for well-draining loamy soil that balances moisture retention and aeration, preventing suffocation and rot. A good soil mix includes organic matter for nutrients, enabling healthy root expansion and optimizing plant stability. This provides the essential support Lysimachia nummularia requires for healthy, vigorous growth.