Want a plant that spills over the edges of pots like a waterfall of golden-green coins? Creeping Jenny is exactly what you’re looking for. Also known as Moneywort or Twopenny Grass, this vigorous, prostrate evergreen perennial has slender, creeping stems that root readily at the nodes, forming a dense, soft mat of rounded to slightly heart-shaped leaves about 2–3cm across. In early to mid-summer, small, cup-shaped, bright yellow flowers nestle amongst the leaves, adding charm and attracting bees.
Native to Europe and temperate Asia, Creeping Jenny has adapted well to Western Cape gardens with a few important considerations. It thrives in full sun to partial shade—golden forms develop their brightest colour in sunnier spots, while deeper shade keeps the foliage a fresh lime green. It prefers consistently moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil and is ideal for damp areas like pond margins, stream banks, or rain gardens. It tolerates some dryness once established, but looks best with regular moisture. It’s reasonably hardy to moderate frost but may die back in severe cold, resprouting from roots in spring. With stems that spread or cascade 50–100cm or more, it’s perfect for hanging baskets, containers, or softening water features.
Key Features:
- Luminous green or golden coin-shaped leaves that seem to glow
- Small, cup-shaped yellow flowers in summer
- Stems root as they spread, quickly forming a dense mat
- Thrives in moist spots like pond margins and rain gardens
Gardening Note: Plant in moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Water regularly, especially in containers and during dry spells—it doesn’t tolerate drought. In very moist, fertile conditions, it can spread vigorously; contain it by planting in pots or baskets, or simply pull out excess stems as needed. Cut back lightly after flowering to keep tidy.
