Bugleweed is a common low-maintenance ground cover that is useful for quickly covering large areas. This evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial is hardy in most growing regions and is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions, from full sun to full shade, and different soils. The small rounded foliage comes in a range of colors and patterns, with showy flower spikes that appear in spring attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and other insect pollinators.
A member of the mint family, the most commonly grown ornamental species of bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) is native to Europe, northern Africa and western Asia, and has naturalized in the U.S. and other countries across the globe. Bugleweed has a vigorous growth habit that can be invasive in some areas (see where), so it’s important to learn how to use it in your landscape. See below for bugleweed alternatives if it is invasive in your area.
This dense, mat-forming ground cover can be used to suppress weeds and on poor sites where little else will grow. Bugleweed is versatile in beds, borders, and containers. Here’s how to grow and use bugleweed in your yard.
Small tubular flowers resembling lobelia occur on upright spikes. Flower color is most often blue, but can also be pink or white.
Round or oval foliage has a crinkled texture, with a shiny or dull surface. Foliage colors can be green, burgundy, bronze, chocolate, gold, or variegated. The foliage is evergreen or semi-evergreen in all but the coldest regions.
Looking for a versatile ground cover that thrives in both sunny and shady spots? Ajuga (commonly known as bugleweed) might be your perfect garden solution! As an experienced gardener, I’ve found this hardy perennial to be one of the most adaptable plants in my landscape designs.
What Makes Ajuga Such a Great Ground Cover?
Ajuga reptans, the most common species, offers:
- Evergreen or semi-evergreen foliage
- Stunning color variations from deep green to burgundy
- Beautiful blue flower spikes in spring
- Dense mat-forming growth that suppresses weeds
- Impressive hardiness in zones 3-10
- Excellent versatility in both sun and shade conditions
Sun vs. Shade: How Does Ajuga Perform?
From my experience working with ajuga here’s how it performs in different light conditions
Full Sun Performance
- Best foliage color development
- More compact growth
- Higher flower production
- Needs consistent moisture
- May need afternoon shade in hot climates
Shade Performance
- More spreading growth habit
- Slightly less intense colors
- Fewer flowers
- Better drought tolerance
- Perfect for difficult shady areas
Popular Ajuga Varieties for Different Light Conditions
For Sunny Spots
-
‘Black Scallop’
- Deep burgundy leaves
- Blue flower spikes
- 3-10 inches tall
- Heat tolerant
-
‘Burgundy Glow’
- Tricolor foliage
- Violet-blue flowers
- 9-12 inches tall
- Great sun tolerance
For Shady Areas
-
‘Chocolate Chip’
- Smaller leaves
- Chocolate-brown color
- 2-3 inches tall
- Perfect for shade gardens
-
‘Metallica Crispa’
- Crinkled foliage
- Bronze-purple color
- 3-6 inches tall
- Shade loving
How to Plant and Care for Ajuga
Planting Tips
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart
- Plant in spring or fall
- Ensure good soil drainage
- Add organic matter when planting
Basic Care Requirements
- Water moderately
- Feed lightly in spring
- Remove spent flower stalks
- Control spread as needed
- Monitor for crown rot in humid conditions
Pro Tips for Success
-
Soil Preparation
- Well-draining soil is crucial
- pH range: 4.5-6.5
- Add compost for better growth
-
Maintenance
- Trim back in early spring
- Remove dead foliage
- Control runners if spreading too much
-
Problem Prevention
- Avoid overwatering
- Ensure good air circulation
- Watch for powdery mildew
Creative Ways to Use Ajuga in Your Garden
-
Border Edging
- Creates clean garden lines
- Prevents soil erosion
- Adds year-round interest
-
Slope Coverage
- Prevents erosion
- Quick establishment
- Low maintenance solution
-
Under Trees
- Tolerates root competition
- Creates woodland feel
- Even grows under walnut trees!
-
Between Pavers
- Softens hardscaping
- Handles light foot traffic
- Creates interesting patterns
Companion Planting with Ajuga
Ajuga plays well with:
- Spring bulbs (daffodils, tulips)
- Hostas
- Ferns
- Coral bells
- Astilbe
Common Questions Answered
Q: Will ajuga take over my garden?
A: While it spreads vigorously, it’s easy to control by removing runners and installing barriers.
Q: How quickly does it spread?
A: In ideal conditions, expect 6-12 inches of spread annually.
Q: Is it deer resistant?
A: Yes! The bitter taste keeps deer and rabbits away.
The Bottom Line
I’ve used ajuga in countless garden designs, and it never disappoints! Whether you’ve got a sunny slope that needs coverage or a shady spot where nothing else grows, ajuga’s got your back. Just remember – give it good drainage, keep an eye on its spread, and enjoy the show!
P.S. – One thing I learned the hard way – don’t plant it right next to your lawn unless you’re ready to do some edging maintenance. Trust me on this one!
Remember, every garden’s different, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties and locations until you find what works best in your space. Happy gardening!
Will bugleweed choke out other plants?
Many varieties of Ajuga have a vigorous spreading plant that can displace nearby plants. Confine bugleweed to more challenging sites, or keep plants regularly pruned back.
HOW TO PLANT BUGLEWEED
Plant bugleweed during milder months in spring or fall to avoid stress from extreme heat or cold.
Choose a site with partial sun to full shade and rich, well-draining soil. Some varieties are tolerant of full sun. Foliage color will be most vibrant with at least 3 to 4 hours of direct sun. Provide afternoon shade in hotter climates. Make sure there is good air circulation to discourage diseases.
Loosen soil in the planting area and amend with compost or other rich organic matter. Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball. Remove plant from the nursery container and tease out roots if potbound. Place in the hole so the top of the root ball is level or slightly higher than the surrounding soil. Fill in the hole with soil, tamp down gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly.
Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart.
Black Scallop bugleweed. Photo: Proven Winners
Ajuga is tolerant of a wide range of soils, but prefers rich, well drained soils with a slightly acidic pH of 4.5 to 6.5. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot or crown rot. For containers, use a high quality all-purpose potting mix.
Bugleweed needs little or no supplemental fertilizer unless soil is poor. In early spring, apply a slow release all-purpose fertilizer according to instructions. Mulch around plants with a thin layer of compost or other organic matter to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
Bugleweed prefers moderate moisture and is drought tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot or crown rot.
Remove errant runners whenever they encroach into areas where they’re not wanted to keep other plants from becoming overrun. Prune out dead or damaged foliage as needed. When plants are finished blooming, shear off spent flower stalks to improve appearance. In large areas, this can be done with a lawnmower at a high setting.
When given optimal growing conditions, bugleweed is free of most pests and diseases. Pests include aphids and root knot nematodes. In humid climates, plants are more susceptible to crown rot or powdery mildew. Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot.