Ajuga

The Best Ajuga Plants In NZ

Ajuga plants, also known as bugleweed, carpetweed, or ground pine, are a versatile and attractive addition to any New Zealand garden. Known for their striking foliage and vibrant flowers, these hardy perennials are perfect for gardeners looking to add color and texture to their landscapes. In this article, we will explore some of the best ajuga plants available in NZ, discuss their benefits, and provide tips on how to care for them.

What is Ajuga?

Ajuga is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. These low-growing perennials are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, and have become popular around the world for their ability to thrive in various conditions. Ajuga plants are known for their dense foliage and spikes of blue, purple, or white flowers that appear in spring and early summer.

Benefits of Ajuga Plants

Ajuga plants offer several advantages for gardeners in New Zealand:

• Ajuga are an excellent ground cover plant, thanks to their low-growing habit and ability to spread quickly. This makes it perfect for filling in gaps.
• Ajuga require minimal care, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners or those new to gardening.
• With its striking leaves in shades of green, bronze, purple, and even variegated patterns, ajuga adds visual interest to any garden.
• Ajuga is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for your garden.

Popular Ajuga Varieties in NZ

There are several ajuga varieties available in New Zealand, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most popular options:

Ajuga Catlins Giant

Ajuga reptans 'Catlin's Giant' is a popular variety known for its large, glossy leaves and tall flower spikes. The dark green foliage is tinged with bronze, providing a beautiful contrast to the deep blue flowers. This variety is perfect for creating a lush, carpet-like effect.

Ajuga reptans multicolour

This variety is prized for its striking tricolour foliage, which features shades of green, cream, and pink. The colourful leaves create a stunning backdrop for the blue flower spikes that appear in spring.

Ajuga Chocolate Chip

Ajuga 'Chocolate Chip' features small, chocolate-brown leaves that create a dense, low-growing mat. The deep blue flowers contrast beautifully with the dark foliage, making this variety a popular choice for edging and ground cover.

Ajuga Black Scallop

This variety is known for its dark, almost black foliage and scalloped leaf edges. The deep blue flowers appear in spring, providing a striking contrast to the dark leaves. 'Black Scallop' is an excellent choice for adding drama and depth to your garden.

Where to Buy Ajuga in NZ

If you're looking to buy ajuga plants in New Zealand, the best option is with The Plant Company. We have a wide range of Ajugas that are ready for their new home. Our google rating shows how well we serve our customers and the testifies to the quality we produce.

How to Care for Ajuga Plants

Ajuga plants are relatively low-maintenance, but there are a few key tips to ensure they thrive in your garden:

Planting

• Ajuga prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. When planting ajuga, space the plants about 15-30cm apart to allow for spreading. This will help create a dense ground cover and prevent weeds from taking hold.

Watering

• Ajuga plants require regular watering, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Once established, they can tolerate short periods of drought but will perform best with consistent moisture. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilising

• Ajuga plants generally do not require much fertiliser. However, applying garden fertiliser in spring will promote healthy growth and vibrant flowers.

Pruning and Maintenance

• To keep your ajuga plants looking their best, remove any spent flower spikes and trim back any overgrown or damaged foliage. This will encourage new growth and help maintain a tidy appearance. Additionally, dividing the plants every few years can help prevent overcrowding and promote healthy growth.