Definition

Noun: 1. A common name for the plant Lysimachia nummularia: A low-growing, perennial, evergreen plant of the primrose family (Primulaceae). It is characterized by its round, coin-shaped leaves and bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers. It is a fast-spreading ground cover that roots at its nodes as it grows along the ground. 2. A loosestrife vine: This term refers specifically to the trailing or creeping growth habit of this species of loosestrife, distinguishing it from other upright types.

Usage and Examples

• As a common plant name:
  • The gardener planted creeping jenny along the edge of the pond for a splash of yellow.
  • I need to control the spread of creeping jenny in my flowerbed, as it's overtaking the other plants.
• Describing its characteristics:
  • The creeping jenny has completely covered the bare patch of soil under the tree.

Advanced Usage

• In horticultural contexts: The term is used precisely to refer to , often specifying cultivars like 'Aurea' (golden creeping jenny).
  • For a golden foliage effect, many landscapers prefer Creeping Jenny 'Aurea'.

Variants and Related Words

• Moneywort: Another very common common name for the same plant (), referring to the coin-like shape of its leaves.
• Creeping Charlie: This is a common name typically used for a different, weedy plant (). It is sometimes confused with Creeping Jenny, but they are distinct species.
• Loosestrife: The broader genus () to which creeping jenny belongs. Note: This is different from the invasive ().

Synonyms

• Botanical name: (the precise, scientific synonym).
• Common names: Moneywort, herb twopence, twopenny grass.

Notes on Usage

• The name is always treated as a common noun and is not capitalized unless it begins a sentence. It is often seen in its plural form, creeping jennies, when referring to multiple plants.
• It is primarily used in gardening, landscaping, and botanical contexts.

Noun

1. a loosestrife vine