Species
Aegopodium podagrariaGround Elder1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Aegopodium podagraria 'Variegatum' is a fast-spreading, rhizomatous perennial ground cover known for its compound green leaves with creamy white margins. It is notoriously aggressive and can be invasive.
The variegated foliage brightens shady areas, but its aggressive spreading habit requires containment to prevent it from overtaking garden beds.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
10 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Water consistently during the first growing season to establish plants.
- Apply mulch to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
- Prune back in late winter to encourage fresh growth.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for best foliage color and growth vigor.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune to control spread and shape the plant
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
- Don’t let the soil dry out completely
- Refrain from planting in full sun as it may scorch the foliage
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Variegated Bishop's Weed questions
What zones can Variegated Bishop's Weed grow in?
Variegated Bishop's Weed is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Variegated Bishop's Weed deer resistant?
Yes — Variegated Bishop's Weed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Variegated Bishop's Weed bloom?
Variegated Bishop's Weed typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Variegated Bishop's Weed need full sun?
Variegated Bishop's Weed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Variegated Bishop's Weed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Variegated Bishop's Weed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Aegopodium to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Variegated Bishop's Weed with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.