What is Moneywort?
Moneywort (Lysimachia nummularia) is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia and is now found in many parts of North America. It has small, circular, bright green leaves and small yellow flowers. The plant grows in dense mats, forming a dense ground cover. Moneywort is sometimes used as a ground cover in gardens and sometimes as an aquarium plant.
Is Moneywort Invasive?
The short answer is yes, Moneywort can be invasive. It is considered an invasive species in some areas of the United States, particularly in the Northeastern and Midwestern states. In these regions, Moneywort is considered a noxious weed and is on the state’s invasive species list. It can spread rapidly and can out-compete native plants for sunlight, nutrients, and water.
Why Is Moneywort Invasive?
Moneywort is a fast-growing, hardy plant that can easily out-compete native plants for resources. It can also form thick mats of vegetation that can smother native plants and prevent them from getting the sunlight and nutrients they need to thrive. It also spreads quickly, sending off new shoots that can spread to nearby areas.
How Can You Stop Moneywort From Spreading?
It is important to prevent Moneywort from spreading because it can quickly take over an area and crowd out native plants. If you find Moneywort in your garden, you should remove it immediately. Pulling it up by hand is the best way to remove it, as this will ensure that the roots are also removed. You should also monitor the area for new plants and remove them as soon as possible.
What Alternatives Are There To Moneywort?
If you are looking for a ground cover or aquarium plant, there are many alternatives to Moneywort that are not invasive. These include Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia), Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus), and Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum). These plants are attractive and low-maintenance, and they will not spread and take over an area like Moneywort can.
Conclusion
Moneywort is an attractive and hardy plant, but it can be invasive in some areas. It is important to monitor your garden and remove any Moneywort plants that you find. There are many alternatives to Moneywort that are not invasive, so you can still have an attractive garden or aquarium without having to worry about it taking over.