Navelwort (Omphalodes): A Charming Non-Native Ground Cover for Shady Spots
Looking for a delicate, low-maintenance ground cover that thrives in shade? Navelwort, scientifically known as Omphalodes, might just be the plant you’re seeking. This European and Asian native has quietly made itself at home in parts of North America, bringing its subtle charm to woodland gardens and shady corners.
What is Navelwort?
Navelwort is an annual forb – essentially a soft-stemmed herbaceous plant that completes its entire life cycle in one growing season. Don’t let its delicate appearance fool you, though. This little charmer is tougher than it looks and has a knack for self-seeding, ensuring it returns year after year without much fuss from you.
The plant gets its common name from its distinctive seed pods, which have a navel-like depression in the center. It’s these quirky little details that make gardening so delightfully interesting!
Where Does Navelwort Grow?
In North America, navelwort has established populations in Ontario, Quebec, Oregon, Texas, and Labrador. It’s considered non-native to Canada, where it has naturalized and reproduces on its own. In the lower 48 United States, its status is less clearly defined, but it can be found growing in scattered locations.
What Does Navelwort Look Like?
Navelwort is a modest beauty that won’t overwhelm your garden design. Here’s what to expect:
- Small, delicate flowers in shades of blue or white
- Heart-shaped leaves that form attractive low mounds
- Typically grows 6-12 inches tall and spreads 8-15 inches wide
- Blooms in spring to early summer
- Forms a gentle ground cover over time
Garden Uses and Design Role
Navelwort shines in specific garden situations where many other plants struggle. It’s particularly valuable as:
- Ground cover in shaded areas
- Filler plant in woodland gardens
- Addition to rock gardens with partial shade
- Naturalized planting in informal landscapes
- Companion plant for ferns and other shade lovers
Growing Conditions and Care
One of navelwort’s best qualities is its easygoing nature. Here’s how to keep it happy:
- Light: Partial to full shade (it actually prefers less sun)
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil with average fertility
- Water: Consistent moisture, but not waterlogged
- Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA zones 3-8
- Maintenance: Very low – just let it do its thing!
Benefits for Wildlife
While navelwort may be small, it still contributes to the garden ecosystem. Its flowers attract small pollinators, including bees and other beneficial insects. The plant also provides some ground cover that can offer shelter for small creatures.
Should You Plant Navelwort?
Here’s the honest truth: while navelwort isn’t problematic like some invasive species, it’s also not native to North America. If you’re passionate about supporting local ecosystems, you might want to consider native alternatives first. Some excellent native options for similar garden situations include:
- Wild ginger (Asarum canadense)
- Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia)
- Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
That said, if you already have navelwort in your garden or find it particularly appealing, it’s not a plant you need to remove. It’s well-behaved, attractive, and fills a useful niche in shade gardens.
Planting and Care Tips
Growing navelwort is refreshingly simple:
- Plant seeds in fall or early spring directly in the garden
- Scatter seeds lightly over prepared soil – they need some light to germinate
- Keep soil consistently moist during germination
- Once established, the plant will self-seed readily
- No fertilizing necessary – it’s quite content with average soil
- Deadhead flowers if you want to prevent self-seeding
The Bottom Line
Navelwort is one of those unassuming plants that quietly does its job without demanding attention. While it’s not native, it’s also not aggressive or harmful. If you have a shady spot that needs gentle ground cover and you appreciate subtle beauty, navelwort might work well for you. Just remember to also consider native alternatives that can provide similar benefits while better supporting local wildlife and ecosystems.
Whether you choose navelwort or a native alternative, the most important thing is creating a garden that brings you joy while being mindful of the broader environmental picture. Happy gardening!
