Ajuga

Ajuga reptans, commonly called bugleweed, is a dense, rapidly spreading, mat-forming ground cover which features shiny, dark green leaves. Whorls of tiny, blue-violet flowers appear in mid to late spring on spikes rising above the foliage to 10". Cultivars of this species feature leaves with more interesting and varied foliage color. When in full flower, large clumps of bugleweed can produce a striking display.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS: USDA hardiness zones: 3 through 10 

CARE INSTRUCTIONS WATER: Do not let dry out.

FERTILIZER: Refer to growers instructions.

FLOWERING: May to June.

SOIL: Wide soil tolerance, but prefers moist, humusy soils.

DISEASE: Crown rot can be a problem, particularly in the humid conditions of the deep South and in heavy soils. Avoid planting in wet, heavy soils, provide good air circulation and divide when clumps become overcrowded. Also avoid planting near perennial beds or lawns where its spreading nature could pose removal problems.