ExplorePlants

Goutweed

Aegopodium podagraria

Goutweed is a green plant with pretty leaves that can spread quickly in gardens. It likes to grow in shady places and can be a fun plant to discover while exploring nature!

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The Goutweed has bright green leaves, often variegated with creamy white edges, growing in clumps from a central stem. Its small white flowers form flat-topped clusters resembling delicate umbrellas, emerging above the foliage. This plant stands out with its bold foliage patterns.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderApialesFamilyApiaceaeGenusAegopodium
Goutweed
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Goutweed

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Despite its invasive nature, some gardeners intentionally plant Goutweed as ground cover!

In medieval times, Goutweed was believed to cure gout, hence its common name!

Its other name, 'Bishop's Weed,' comes from its historical use near old cathedrals!

Its scientific name, *Aegopodium*, means 'goat's foot' because of its distinctive leaf shape!

Special abilities

Ability

Underground Takeover

Goutweed can rapidly spread with special underground stems called rhizomes, helping it quickly claim new territory.

Ability

Light Chameleon

Goutweed has the ability to grow vigorously in deep shade or full sun, helping it adapt to almost any environment.

Ability

Regrowth Champion

Even if cut back, Goutweed can regrow quickly from small root fragments, helping it bounce back from damage.

Measurements & details

Height
30-100 cm
Spread
30-90 cm
Flower Size
0.2-0.3 cm
Bloom Season
Late spring to mid-summer
Edible
Yes
Toxicity
None
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

European honey bee

Apis mellifera

Collects nectar and pollen from flowers.

pollinates

Drone fly

Eristalis tenax

Visits flowers for nectar, aiding reproduction.

eaten by

Black slug

Arion ater

Common garden slug grazes on its leaves.

eaten by

White-tailed deer

Odocoileus virginianus

Occasionally browses on young goutweed shoots.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always check with an adult before touching or eating any plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Goutweed?

30-100 cm

How wide does Goutweed spread?

30-90 cm

How big are the flowers on Goutweed?

0.2-0.3 cm

When does Goutweed bloom?

Late spring to mid-summer

Is Goutweed edible?

Yes

Is Goutweed toxic?

None

What is Goutweed's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Goutweed pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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