Cymbalaria muralis aka Ivy Leaved Toadflax

Cymbalaria muralis is known as Kenilworth ivy or ivy-leaved toadflax. It belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. Its native range covers the southern Alps and parts of Italy. It also grows wild in the northwestern Balkan Peninsula. This small perennial suits temperate gardens. In colder places, gardeners may grow it as an annual. Wild plants grow on walls, shaded rocks, and other well-drained sites.

The plant forms a low mat and spreads by creeping stems. Garden height is about 0.17–0.33 feet [0.05–0.1 metres]. Its spread reaches about 1–1.6 feet [0.3–0.5 metres]. Smooth, red-brown stems take root at their nodes. They run across the ground and can climb walls. The green leaves stay through some or all of winter. Each leaf is round or kidney-shaped, with three to seven lobes. These lobes end in points. Veins spread from one point near the leaf base.

Small flowers appear from May to September in several source accounts. Chicago Botanic Garden records a longer season, from March through October. The blue-violet or lilac blooms have a yellow throat. Each flower has two lips and a long spur. Honey bees visit for pollen and nectar. The flower stalk first holds the bloom toward the light. After fertilization, it bends toward dark gaps. This movement helps place seeds in cracks where they can sprout. The small, dry seed capsules split open when ripe.

Partial shade suits this plant, and it also tolerates deeper shade. It can grow in sun if the soil stays moist. Give it soil that drains well rather than staying wet. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Sources list clay, sand, loam, and chalk among suitable soils. It grows fast and needs little upkeep or pruning. RHS rates it H5; US sources mainly list zones 5–8. Chicago lists zones 6–9, while Missouri notes possible winter damage. Use it on small slopes, in rock gardens, or between paving. Its stems can trail from walls, pots, and hanging baskets. Seed and rooted stem sections provide ways to raise new plants.

Serious pest and disease trouble is uncommon. Slugs, snails, and mites may occur. Seedlings can suffer damping off. PFAF records raw leaves as food, but describes a bitter taste. It also warns of possible mild toxicity, so food use needs caution. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. PFAF reports past medicinal uses, including wound poultices. The flowers also yield a yellow dye that fades.