Creeping Charlie

Overview

Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea), also known as ground ivy, is widely considered the most frustrating lawn weed. It is a creeping perennial broadleaf that spreads aggressively via stolons (above-ground runners) that root at every node, making it nearly impossible to eradicate mechanically.

Identification

Look for low-growing vines with scalloped, kidney-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs. Small purple tubular flowers appear in spring. Stems are square (a mint family characteristic). Crushed leaves have a minty smell.

Damage to Your Lawn

Creeping Charlie forms a dense, ground-hugging mat that completely smothers turfgrass. Its stolons weave through grass blades and root at every node, creating an interconnected network. It thrives in shade where grass is already thin, then expands aggressively into sunny areas.

Why It Is So Difficult to Control

Aggressive stolon spreading combined with shade tolerance and difficulty of removal makes creeping Charlie the lawn care community’s most-despised weed. Standard 3-way herbicide (2,4-D alone) has mixed results. Any stolon fragment left behind regrows into a new plant.

Control Strategy

Triclopyr is the primary chemical control. Apply in fall when the plant is actively sending nutrients to its root system — the herbicide translocates down with those nutrients. Expect to need 2 applications spaced 3 weeks apart. Can be tank-mixed with 2,4-D for broader broadleaf control.

For severe infestations covering large areas, full renovation (glyphosate kill + reseed) may be more practical and cost-effective than years of spot treatment.