Ajuga reptans, commonly known as Bugleweed or Carpet Bugle, is a hardy and versatile ground cover plant. It has dense, spreading foliage and vibrant spikes of blue to purple flowers, which appear in late spring and early summer.

The plant’s evergreen foliage often comes in striking shades of green, bronze, or variegated patterns, making it an attractive addition to the garden year-round.

Ajuga is great for suppressing weeds in tricky spots, such as under trees, along paths, or in shady areas where grass struggles to grow.

It pairs beautifully with hostas, ferns, and other shade-loving plants, providing a colourful and textured carpet that is easy to maintain.

All about Ajuga reptans

Ajuga reptans is a fast-spreading, mat-forming perennial that thrives in shaded to partially sunny conditions. Its ability to tolerate a range of soils and low-maintenance nature makes it a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Ajuga’s flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, further enhancing its value in the garden.

Key facts

• Scientific name and any synonyms: Ajuga reptans
• Meaning of scientific plant name: “Ajuga” derives from the Latin word “a” (without) and “jugum” (yoke), referring to the plant’s lack of a prominent calyx. “Reptans” means “creeping” in Latin, describing its spreading growth habit.
• Common names: Bugleweed, Carpet Bugle, Blue Bugle
• Plant family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
• Place of origin of the plant: Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia
• Type of plant: Evergreen perennial ground cover
• Size: Typically 6–9 inches (15–23 cm) tall with a spread of 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) or more
• Foliage – Description of foliage: Low-growing, glossy leaves in shades of green, bronze, or variegated; forms a dense mat.
• Flower – Description of flower and flowering time: Small, tubular flowers arranged in upright spikes; typically blue or purple, blooming from late spring to early summer.
• Fruit – Description of fruit (if any) and fruiting time: Produces small nutlets after flowering, though these are not a significant feature.
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans (source: ASPCA).

Care requirements

Best cultivars

1. ‘Chocolate Chip’ – Compact variety with small, chocolate-brown leaves and vibrant blue flowers; grows to 4–6 inches (10–15 cm).
2. ‘Burgundy Glow’ – Variegated foliage in shades of green, cream, and burgundy; striking ground cover reaching 6–8 inches (15–20 cm).
3. ‘Black Scallop’ – Deep purple-black leaves with a glossy texture; highly decorative and grows to 6 inches (15 cm).
4. ‘Catlin’s Giant’ – Larger leaves and taller flower spikes than most varieties; grows to 10–12 inches (25–30 cm).
5. ‘Blueberry Muffin’ – Vigorous grower with dark green leaves and intense blue flowers; reaches 6–8 inches (15–20 cm).
6. ‘Pink Lightning’ – Unusual variety with pink flowers and green leaves edged in cream; grows to 6 inches (15 cm).
7. ‘Bronze Beauty’ – Bronze-coloured foliage with bright blue flowers; a classic cultivar growing to 6 inches (15 cm).
8. ‘Mahogany’ – Glossy, deep red-bronze leaves with bold blue flower spikes; grows to 8 inches (20 cm).
9. ‘Silver Queen’ – Variegated leaves with silvery highlights and blue flowers; great for shady areas.
10. ‘Rainbow’ – Multicoloured foliage with pink, white, and green hues; grows to 6–9 inches (15–23 cm).

Propagation

Ajuga reptans is most commonly propagated by division or runners. In spring or autumn, dig up a mature plant and separate the offsets or runners. Replant the divisions in well-prepared soil, spacing them about 12 inches (30 cm) apart to allow for spreading.

Seeds can also be used, though this method is slower and less common. Sow seeds directly onto the soil surface in early spring or late autumn, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist until seedlings appear.

Pests and diseases

Ajuga reptans is relatively pest- and disease-resistant. However, in overly wet or poorly drained conditions, it can suffer from:

1. Crown Rot – A fungal disease that causes the plant’s centre to decay. To prevent this, ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove and destroy affected plants to prevent the spread.
2. Slugs and Snails – These pests may nibble on young foliage, particularly in damp conditions. Use organic slug traps or barriers like crushed eggshells to deter them.
3. Powdery Mildew – Rarely affects Ajuga but can occur in crowded or poorly ventilated areas. Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering.

By planting Ajuga in well-drained soil and ensuring good air circulation, most problems can be avoided.

Featured image: Ajuga reptans by G. Edward Johnson is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Martin Cole( Head Gardener and Founder )

Martin Cole has been an avid plant lover and gardener for more than 20 years and loves to talk and write about gardening. In 2006 he was a finalist in the BBC Gardener of the Year competition. He is a member of the National dahlia Society.

He previously lived in London and Sydney, Australia, where he took a diploma course in Horticultural studies and is now based in North Berwick in Scotland. He founded GardeningStepbyStep.com in 2012. The website is aimed at everybody who loves plants or has been bitten by the gardening bug and wants to know more.

Gardening Step by Step has been cited by Thompson and Morgan, the UK’s  largest mail order plant retailer, as a website that publishes expert gardening content.