Gundermann or Gundelrebe is often also referred to as ivy Gundermann and is commercially available. The name is due to the similarity of the leaves. There are some similarities between the two plants, but also some differences.

On closer inspection, ivy and ground ivy hardly look alike

Similarities and differences with ivy

Ground ivy is a small creeping plant that propagates by stolons on the ground. Ivy is a semi-shrub that spreads on the ground with tendrils, but also climbs walls and trees.

You can pick Gundermann without hesitation. With ivy you should be careful not to let the leaves get on your bare skin. The leaves contain falcarinol, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people.

Use as a medicinal plant

Ground ivy and ivy have been used as medicinal plants for centuries. However, since ivy is poisonous, natural remedies for oral use should only be bought in pharmacies and not made by yourself.

Ground ivy is used in alternative medicine for:

  • abscesses
  • tumors
  • eye problems
  • lung infection
  • kidney problems

Ivy is considered a remedy for:

  • Painkiller
  • inflammation
  • lung disease

Both ground ivy and ivy as a remedy have been scientifically studied. A healing effect could be proven.

Ground ivy is edible

Ground ivy leaves are edible. They even contain a large amount of vitamin C and are therefore often used in spring salads. They should only be used sparingly because of their slightly bitter taste.

Ivy, on the other hand, is poisonous in all parts of the plant. The fruits in particular contain many saponins, which cause severe nausea and other symptoms of poisoning. The poison content is not very high, but the leaves, flowers and fruits must not be eaten under any circumstances.

For animals, ivy and ground ivy are equally indigestible or even poisonous. Both plants should therefore be kept away from meadows and pastures.

Ivy ground ivy not always popular in the garden

Both ground ivy and ivy are very hardy plants that do well in both sunny and shady locations. Both prefer slightly moist soil and will also spread if the subsoil is heavily compacted.

Both plants are very fast-growing and form long tendrils. They are therefore often planted on walls or in shady garden areas where hardly anything else grows.

However, care should be taken when planting ground ivy in the garden, as the herb spreads very quickly. Once established in the garden, it is difficult to combat because many new small plants form on the long tendrils. Ivy, on the other hand, is quite easy to pull out and keep in check by cutting back.

tips

Even if ivy ground ivy or ground ivy is not very popular in the garden, the herb is ecologically valuable. The pretty purple flowers are good bee pasture in spring. They attract flocks of bumblebees and bees.

Category:

Vegetable garden