In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Ajuga plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.
The common name for the Hardy perennial Ajuga is Bugleweed.
It typically flowers from late spring to mid-summer.
Latin names include Ajuga reptans, Ajuga turkestanica and Ajuga reptans atropurpurea.
USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 3: 101.
Ajuga are matt forming evergreen plants. This makes them ideal for growing as a ground covering plant.
Bugleweed, has a mass of blue and purple flowering stems that sit above the foliage of leaves. These can be as variable in colour as deep green, purple, pink, and cream.
Ajuga (possibly Ajuga turkestanica) photograph by Wallygrom
Ajuga reptans is a perennial. Common Bugle grows to about 6 to 9 inches (15-23 cm) tall. It features glossy, ovate leaves and blue flower spikes.
Ajuga reptans (Bugle / Common Bugle / Bugleweed / Carpetweed), photograph by Andreas Rockstein; CC.
This plant thrives in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. It's ideal for ground cover, borders, or rock gardens.
The perennial Ajuga genevensis reaches a height of 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm). Upright Bugle has oblong leaves and spikes of blue flowers.
Ajuga genevensis (Upright Bugle / Geneva Bugleweed / Blue bugle), picture by Val Def; CC.
Thisnplant prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. It is perfect for ground cover, rock gardens, or borders.
Ajuga pyramidalis grows to 8 to 12 inches (20-30 cm) tall. Pyramidal Bugle bears ovate leaves. It is namedd from its pyramidal clusters of blue flowers.
It thrives in a part shade to full sun location, and needs a well-drained soil.
Ajuga tenorii is a perennial that grows to about 6 to 10 inches (15-25 cm) in height. This plant features oblong leaves and has tall spikes of blue flowers.
Chocolate Chip Bugle grows best in full sun to part shade, and a well-drained soil. Looks great as ground cover, in a rock garden, or as part of a border.
Ajuga incisa reaches a height of 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm). It has incised leaves and spikes of blue flowers.
It prefers part shade to full sun and well-drained soil. Cutleaf Bugle is ideal for ground cover, use in rock gardens, or for borders.
It is best to sow seeds on the soil surface. Simply cover the Ajuga seeds with a light dusting of soil on top.
They should be spaced 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12 inches) apart in the spring or autumn.
Ajuga plant species can grow in either full sunlight or in the shade.
The soil should be dry and ideally have a pH in the range of 5.5 to 7.1.
Ajuga requires between three to four weeks to germinate. If initiating growth indoors, they should be grown at a temperature of 10 to 12 degrees centigrade (50 to 54°F).
The Ajuga plant is very easy to look after. For best results they should be fertilised in the spring, and watered frequently.
The spent flower heads should be removed after blooming, and leaves removed in the Autumn.
The Ajuga genus consists of about 40-50 species.
Yes, Ajuga, commonly known as Bugleweed, makes excellent ground cover due to its rapid growth and attractive, often variegated foliage.
The most commonly grown species is Ajuga reptans (Bugleweed).
No, Ajuga plants are not typically known for their fragrance.
Ajuga is versatile and can grow in both full sun and partial shade, and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Ajuga can spread rapidly and may be invasive in some areas, but it's not generally a problem if properly managed.
Removal can be done by pulling or digging up the plants, making sure to remove all roots to prevent regrowth.
The Ajuga genus, also known as Bugleweed, includes perennial plants with attractive foliage and spikes of small flowers. Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, they are valued for their dense, low-growing habit. Ajuga plants prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade but can tolerate full sun. They are adaptable and can thrive in various soil types. Regular watering is necessary to maintain their lush appearance. Ajuga is commonly used as ground cover, adding texture and color to garden beds and creating a carpet-like effect.
Ajuga plants captivate with their attractive foliage and spikes of small flowers. Their ability to form dense mats of lush foliage makes them ideal for ground cover purposes. Whether in shade or sun-dappled areas, Ajuga adds texture and visual interest to garden beds. With their adaptability and ability to thrive in different soil types, Ajuga offers versatility in garden designs, providing a carpet-like effect that enhances the overall aesthetic. Ajuga is a valuable addition to any garden seeking a low-maintenance yet visually appealing ground cover.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on Ajuga. As this plant is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), you may also enjoy the following garden growing guides: How to grow Melissa, Mint, Gaultheria procumbens, and Scutellaria plants.