About
This creeping, evergreen perennial forming a mat of large, glossy dark bronze-purple leaves to 15cm long, and erect spikes of blue flowers, about 20-30cm in height, produced in late spring and summer.
About the genus
Ajuga are mostly spreading, rhizomatous perennials with attractive evergreen foliage, rarely annuals, with whorled two-lipped flowers forming short spikes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationWill tolerate any soil so long as there is some moisture, best in full or partial shade to prevent foliage scorching, but can also tolerate a light sunny spot as long as the soil remains moist
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division, separating rooted stems
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews