Ajuga reptans

Carpet Bugle

The Carpet Bugle, scientifically known as Ajuga reptans, is an herbaceous perennial grown for both its impressive foliage and flowers. It forms a spreading mound of dark green leaves which often take on bronze and purple tones, particularly during cooler periods. The leaves serve as a lovely backdrop to the large and showy spikes of blue flowers which rise above the foliage from spring through summer. It typically grows to 20 cm tall and 80 cm wide, performing best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site that does not dry out. It is frost hardy and will tolerate coastal environments and reasonable levels of shade. The Carpet Bugle is commonly used as a groundcover, included in borders, or used to transform a shady area.