Overview
Lysimachia nummularia is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the genus Lysimachia, part of the Primulaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Lysimachia nummularia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, flower borders and beds, wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens.
About
Lysimachia nummularia, commonly known as creeping Jenny, is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the Primulaceae family. It is a deciduous groundcover that grows to between 0.1 and 0.5 metres in height and spread, reaching full size within 2 to 5 years. This adaptable plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and suits south, west, or east-facing aspects. It tolerates a variety of soil types including clay and loam, with moisture levels ranging from moist but well-drained to poorly-drained, and can grow in acid, alkaline, or neutral soils. It is of interest throughout spring, summer, and winter.
About the genus
Lysimachia is a genus consisting of 182 accepted species of flowering plants traditionally classified in the family Primulaceae. Based on a molecular phylogenetic study it was transferred to the family Myrsinaceae, before this family was later merged into the Primulaceae.
Wikipedia contributors, "Lysimachia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lysimachia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lysimachia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Lysimachia nummularia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lysimachia nummularia
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lysimachia nummularia?
Lysimachia nummularia prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Lysimachia nummularia need?
Lysimachia nummularia grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.
How big does Lysimachia nummularia grow?
Lysimachia nummularia reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Lysimachia nummularia hardy in the UK?
Lysimachia nummularia has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Lysimachia nummularia?
Seed, Division.
More in the Lysimachia genus
- Lysimachia atropurpurea 'Beaujolais'

- Lysimachia ephemrum
- Lysimachia leschenaultiicarmine-flowered loosestrife
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