Bugleweed (Ajuga)

A. reptans ‘Catlin’s Giant’

Bugleweed, aka carpetweed (Ajuga reptans), is low-growing semi-evergreen groundcover that offers almost year-round appeal (USDA hardiness zones 3-9). It develops a low prostrate habit and spreads by runners that root into the soil. Attractive vertical spikes of flowers arise in mid- to late- spring. Cultivars abound with multi-colored flowers. Foliage variants range from light green, dark green, bronzed, purple, or variegated leaves.

Vegetatively, ajuga grows 2 to 5 inches tall, depending on cultivar. Attractive flower stalks rise 6 to 10 inches above the foliage. Small flowers come in blue, purple, pink, or white, depending on cultivar. Flowers are covered by bees and skipper butterflies. Tiny brown seeds follow on the persistent fruiting stalks.

After flowering you may raise your mower height to clean off spent flowers and seed heads, and to renovate old winter beaten foliage. Ajuga grows best in partial sun to full shade and thrives in humus-rich soil; it will grow in average, well-drained soil.  Utilize ajuga to cover large flat areas and minor slopes, to edge walkways, and for rock gardens.

Feed with spring application of granular 10-10-10 or equivalent fertilizer and irrigate regularly during the hot and dry summer intervals. It is susceptible to crown rot under extremely wet conditions. Ajuga is easily propagated from daughter plants (runners) and from crown divisions. Over the years ajuga will intrude into lawn areas and flower beds.

Leading cultivars:*

• ‘Bronze Beauty’ – bright green-bronze foliage turns glossy deep purple in fall and winter; lilac-blue flower spikes.
• ‘Burgundy Glow’ (aka ‘Burgundy Lace’) – pink, white, and green variegated foliage; blue flower spikes.
• ‘Catlin’s Giant’ – vigorous growing, glossy, bronze purple/near black, crisp foliage; deep blue flowers.
• ‘Chocolate Chip’ – compact growing, small, glossy, bronze-maroon and green foliage; 2 inches tall lilac-blue flower spikes.
• ‘Metallica Crispa’ (also known as ‘Cristata’) – bronzed foliage is small and crinkled, resembling dark spinach, but is not as vigorous as other cultivars; blue flower spikelets

*Note: some variegated forms may revert to green or bronzed foliage.