Aegopodium podagraria

Sunset

Zones A1-A3, 1-9, 12, 14-24, 30-45

Full, Partial, Shade

Moderate, Minimal

Bishop’s Weed, Gout Weed
Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)
Ground covers, Perennials

Native Europe to western Asia; naturalized in North America. Rampant ground cover, especially in rich soil. Spreads by creeping underground rootstocks; best contained by underground barrier of wood, concrete, or metal extending 8–12 in. into soil.

Many light green, three-leafleted leaves make a dense mass to 6 in. high. Flat-topped clusters of inconsequential flowers rise above the leaves in summer. To neaten, mow two or three times yearly. Shear off flowering stems before they set seed to limit volunteer seedlings. deciduous even in mild-winter areas.

'Variegatum'

This is the most widely planted form; commonly used in intermountain and mountain regions. Leaflets are edged white, look luminous in shade. Set plants 1 ft. apart. Pull any that revert to solid green. In warm climates, give light shade during hottest part of day.