Aegopodium podagraria variegatum, commonly known as variegated bishop's weed or goutweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is a cultivar of Aegopodium podagraria, which is native to Europe and Western Asia.
Variegated bishop's weed is prized for its attractive foliage. It features leaves with green and white variegation, often displaying a creamy white or yellowish margin. The leaves are compound, divided into multiple leaflets, and have a fern-like appearance. The plant spreads via underground rhizomes and can form dense groundcover in gardens.
While variegated bishop's weed is cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its foliage, it is considered invasive in many regions. Its vigorous growth habit and ability to spread rapidly make it difficult to control in garden settings. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the potential invasiveness of this plant before introducing it into your garden.
If you decide to grow variegated bishop's weed, it is advisable to contain it within planters or use barriers to prevent its spread into surrounding areas where it can outcompete native plants. Regular maintenance, such as cutting back or removing unwanted shoots, can also help manage its growth.