Lysimachia 'Aurea'

Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea': Golden Threads for Ground-Level Glow

Brilliant and fast-spreading, Lysimachia 'Aurea'—commonly called Golden Creeping Jenny—forms a vibrant mat of trailing, coin-shaped leaves in glowing chartreuse. Its foliage remains bright from spring to fall, adding radiant contrast at the garden’s edge, between stepping stones, or spilling from containers. In early summer, small yellow flowers appear among the foliage, enhancing the plant’s sunny character. Equally effective in sun or part shade, this vigorous groundcover brings colour, texture, and light to every corner it touches.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 5–10 cm
• Spread: 60–90 cm and rapidly expanding
• Flower Colour: Bright yellow
• Flowering Period: Early to mid-summer
• Foliage: Rounded, golden-chartreuse leaves; semi-evergreen
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade (best colour in sun)
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained to wet soil; thrives in consistently damp areas

Uses and Benefits: 'Aurea' is ideal for brightening the front of borders, softening hard edges, or trailing from containers and hanging baskets. It’s especially useful in rain gardens, along pond margins, or in areas with consistent moisture, where its spreading habit fills gaps with glowing foliage. Fast to establish and visually impactful, it pairs beautifully with darker and cooler-toned plants for bold contrast and textural layering.

Companion Plants: Pair Lysimachia 'Aurea' with Heuchera 'Obsidian', whose deep, glossy foliage creates a dramatic foil for the golden mat. Add Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' for upright spikes of rich violet-blue that stand boldly above. Finish with Carex 'Blue Zinger', whose fine, steely-blue blades echo the trailing habit and introduce a cool balance to this vibrant trio.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun to part shade in moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially in sunny or dry areas. Cut back in early spring to refresh the foliage. Best grown where its spreading habit can be appreciated and contained—avoid planting near more delicate or slow-growing companions.

History: A golden-leaved form of the European native Lysimachia nummularia, 'Aurea' has been cherished for its fast growth, bold foliage, and versatility in both ornamental and functional roles. Its bright colour and adaptability have made it a mainstay in containers and groundcover plantings alike.

Final Thoughts: Vivid and fluid, Lysimachia 'Aurea' weaves light through the garden floor—its golden foliage illuminating shady edges and damp corners with effortless brilliance.