About
Ajuga reptans is a low-growing perennial that typically reaches a height of up to 15 cm. It produces a dense carpet of dark green leaves, which are shaped like spoons. In late spring and early summer, this plant sends up upright spikes adorned with dark blue flowers.
About the genus
Ajuga primarily consists of spreading, rhizomatous perennials that feature appealing evergreen leaves, with annuals being a rare occurrence. The plants produce whorled, two-lipped flowers that cluster in short spikes.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe, Iran, SW Asia
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in any moist soil, best in full or partial shade but tolerant of part day sun if soil remains moist
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by division, separating rooted stems
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews