Identification
This naturalized perennial was introduced from Europe. It spreads rapidly on ascending branches from creeping square stems often covering the ground in dense, tangled mats (A). The small, rounded leaves have scalloped margins with an indentation in the back where the stalk attaches (B). Tubular, 2-lipped, blue-violet flowers arise from the leaf axils (C,D); the notched upper lip is much smaller than the lower one which has 2 side lobes and a larger middle lobe with dark spots at its base. Leaves and flowers face the sun (A).
Thrives in moist woodlands, trails and woodland edges, lawns, roadsides and other disturbed areas, flowering from April through September. Common along trails and in moist ravines at both Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods. Although it favors moist areas it is often found in drier sites as well.
Considered a weed in Nebraska. This plant quickly takes over lawns and is despised by many; in the opinion of one (not all!) of the authors, more of us should allow it to remain and flourish as an excellent ground cover alternative to grass.
Another much used common name is Creeping Charlie. Older and less well known common names such as Gill-Over-The-Ground, alehoof and tunhoof arose from its use in brewing ale.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.