Ajuga reptans
Ajuga reptans
Bugle
- Position: partial shade or sun
- Soil: well-drained soil
- Flowering: April to June
- Height: 20 cm
- Foliage: evergreen
- Hardiness: fully hardy
Varieties
Ajuga reptans
Ajuga reptans, also known as bugle, is a low-growing, spreading ground cover plant with dark green leaves. It produces lovely, blue flower spikes in late spring. Excellent garden plant for wildlife. Bugle is much loved by bees.
Ajuga reptans ‘Atropurpurea’
This variety offers attractive bronze-purple leaves with deep blue flowers to 15cm tall. It will form an evergreen carpet. Some sun is needed to retain the colour of the bronze-purple foliage.
Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’ Ajuga reptans ‘Atropurpurea’
Ajuga reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’
‘Burgundy Glow’ produces striking leaves in shades of green, burgundy-pink, and cream. The rich blue flower spikes will appear in late spring. This colourful low-growing variety is an ideal choice for growing at the front of the border. Also great for small containers.
How to grow ajuga reptans
Ajuga reptans (bugle) prefers to grow in well-drained soil in partial shade or sun. If planted in a sunny spot, ensure that the soil remains moist.
Pruning
When and how to prune Ajuga reptans (bugle). It needs very little pruning. Remove faded flower spikes after flowering. Remove dead or old leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. Do this job in early spring.
If necessary, you can restrict the size of Ajuga reptans. To control spreading lift and divide clumps in late autumn or early spring.
Plant combination
Ajuga reptans will look great with a range of partners such as Aquilegia, Bergenia, and Liriope.
Liriope muscari