Ajuga plants are amazing ground covering plants you can grow in your garden. Among these, the most popular ones are Bugleweed plants that belong to the Ajuga genus. These are among the best and most common ground covers. One great thing about these plants is that you can use them in many different places and situations. You may even choose them based on the color of their leaves and flowers to create a striking color scheme in your garden.

Basic Plant Facts

Ajuga plants tend to grow well in the U.S. hardiness zones 3 to 9, though the exact zones will depend on the variety. Regardless of the variety, these are evergreen or at least semi-evergreen plants so they will make your garden look gorgeous all year round.

Ajugas are known for their beautiful flowers. They begin to bloom early in the spring and continue to bloom until mid July. The peak flowering period is May and June.

Keep in mind that Ajuga plants are generally short. Most varieties reach the height of no more than 6 to 9 inches. This happens when they are in full bloom. If you want to have a taller Ajuga plant make sure to pay attention to the variety in question.

Generally speaking, Ajuga plants grow near the ground. This is why they are so effective as ground covers. They can spread quickly and easily by runners so they quickly create a thick carpet of foliage on the ground.

Another advantage to Ajuga plants is that they can be used for erosion control. Despite being short these plants have a very strong and extensive root system so they work great for erosion control.

Ajuga plants are members of the mint family. Like most mints, they are quick to grow and spread. It means that they may spread too fast and create problems in your garden. Some Ajugas may even become invasive. This is one thing you need to keep in mind if you wish to grow Ajuga plants in your garden.

In order to control your Ajuga plants and keep them in one designated spot you may need to use some kind of an edging material to prevent your Ajugas from spreading.

Choosing Your Color Scheme

Since Ajuga plants come in many different flower and leaf colors, you can choose them based on the color scheme you want to have in your garden. There are many different Ajuga varieties to choose from. Depending on the variety, the flowers may be deep blue or purplish, which is the most common flower color. However, there are varieties with white and rose colors.

When it comes to leaves, the foliage color ranges from green and bronze to purple. There are even some varieties with very dark purple leaves that seem almost black. Keep in mind that you can also opt for variegated forms if you like.

Photo credit: 8mitsu