Lysimachia nummularia (Creeping Jenny)

Creeping Jenny earns its keep as one of the most versatile low-growing plants for moist spots in the garden. The bright green, coin-shaped leaves hug the ground on trailing stems that spread quickly to fill bare soil, tumble over container edges, or cascade down a retaining wall. Small, cheerful yellow flowers appear in early summer and add another layer of appeal to what is primarily a foliage plant.

It is particularly valuable in spots that are too wet for most other ground covers. At the edge of a pond, along a stream bank, or in a persistently damp low spot where other plants sulk, Creeping Jenny is in its element. It also works well in mixed container arrangements, where its trailing habit softens the edges of pots and window boxes and provides a contrast to more upright companions.

Be aware that Creeping Jenny spreads with enthusiasm in ideal conditions. In a contained area or container this is purely an asset. In a garden bed bordering natural areas, some management may be needed to keep it in bounds. It is not typically a problem in drier parts of the garden, where its spread slows considerably. Shear back any time it grows beyond where you want it.