Perennial Hardy Ground Cover
Bugle 'Ajuga' (Ajuga reptans), offered by OSC Seeds
Ajuga reptans, also known as Carpet Bugle, is a tough and low-maintenance perennial perfect for creating dense ground cover in shaded areas. Propagated by underground stolons, it quickly fills bare patches while producing stunning blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Resistant to deer and rabbits, this hardy ground cover thrives in borders, flowerbeds, and large containers, making it an excellent choice for versatile landscaping.
Spread: Up to 50 cm
Plant height: 10–15 cm
Packet size: Approx. 30–35 seeds
Companion plants: Hostas, ferns, heucheras
Incompatible plants: None known
How to Grow:
For natural cold stratification, sow seeds outdoors in early September. Lightly press seeds into the soil without covering them, as light aids germination. For indoor sowing, start seeds in late February by moistening a soilless medium, pressing seeds on the surface, and refrigerating for two weeks. After this period, place the container at 20°C, where germination will occur in 4–5 weeks. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the frost risk has passed, spacing plants 20 cm apart. Mowing once or twice annually helps remove old flower spikes and maintain the cover.
Ajuga reptans is a perfect choice for shaded areas, offering functionality, beauty, and resilience in an easy-to-maintain ground cover.