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Kenilworth ivy

Scientific Name: Cymbalaria muralis

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Kenilworth Ivy (Cymbalaria muralis)

Kenilworth Ivy, scientifically known as Cymbalaria muralis, is also commonly called Ivy-leaved Toadflax, Coliseum Ivy, Oxford Ivy, Mother of Thousands, Pennywort, Wandering Sailor, Climbing Sailor, Ivy Lobelia, Aaron's Beard, Thousand Flower, Mother of Millions, and Herb of the Madonna (Erba belle Madonna), Ivywort.

Considerations for Pets

  • While one source indicates Cymbalaria muralis is considered non-toxic to dogs, it's always advisable to prevent pets from ingesting any plants.
  • This plant spreads via runners, forming a dense mat, and could potentially be appealing to pets for chewing or digging.

Considerations for Children

  • Cymbalaria muralis is known for its ability to rapidly spread, which could be of interest to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cymbalaria muralis
  • Family: Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)
  • Synonyms: Linaria cymbalaria
  • Other Scientific Names: Cymbalaria muralis P.G. Gaertn., B. Mey., and Cymbalaria muralis G. Gaertn., B. Mey. & Scherb.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Europe and introduced in North America.
  • Often found growing on walls.
  • Kenilworth ivy is most comfortable in Mediterranean-type climates.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A creeping or trailing perennial herb.
  • Forms tons of tiny, fast-growing runners.
  • Leaves are kidney-shaped, palmately lobed, and veined, often described as scalloped.
  • Flowers are small, snapdragon-like, and typically pale violet or lilac-blue with a yellow throat. Some varieties have purple and white flowers.
  • Grows as a low mat.

Ecological Role

  • While generally not considered a weed, it can be invasive in some regions.

Quirky Facts

  • One of the common names, "Mother of Thousands," alludes to its prolific spreading habit.
  • Another common name, "Aaron's Beard," suggests that the plant is associated with beard-like foliage.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden is a community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
  • USDA PLANTS Database.