Sometimes folklore and science actually intersect, though often in unexpected ways. Ground ivy spreads by seed and the vining stems which root at their nodes. The leaves of ground ivy are round or kidney-shaped with scalloped margins.
Stems are four-sided.
Ground ivy thrives in damp, shady areas, but also grows well in sunny locations. A member of the mint family, ground ivy produces a minty odor when cut or crushed. Originally brought to the United States from Europe as a ground cover, the plant soon became a pest because of its spreading habit. As early as the 1920s, this mineral was being used not only for its cleaning properties, but for its ability to eradicate weeds. Through trial and error, people found that borax could kill ground ivy.