About

Ajuga Tropical Toucan ('Trotou') is a low-growing perennial that can be evergreen or semi-evergreen. It develops dense mats composed of glossy leaves that are deeply veined and bright yellow-green in color. In mid to late spring, the plant produces spikes adorned with tubular flowers in a violet-blue hue.

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
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Matforming
Foliage
Evergreen, Semi evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Thrives in any moist but well-drained soil in partial shade; will also tolerate full shade. Leaves may scorch in too much sun
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division, separating rooted stems in early summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews