Best Shade-Loving Plants for Tree-Lined Developments

Trees are often planted along streets in cities to reduce the urban heat effect.  While beautiful, these trees often shade the landscape around them enough to keep turfgrass from growing.  Landscaping with shade-loving plants instead of turfgrass can offer a solution.

Types of Shade

The type of shade an area receives will affect the plants that will grow there.  Heavy or dense shade is the most challenging type of shade.  Plants here must tolerate continuous low light conditions.  Partial shade or dappled shade mimics the shade found in woodland areas and increases the number of species that will grow.  Half shade means that something, usually a building, casts a shadow causing shade.  For part of the day, the area may be in full sun.  The other part of the day, the area is in full shade.  Some sun-loving plants will grow in half shade as long as the area is sunny at least six hours a day.

Dry Shade Versus Moist Shade

Most woodlands have moist soil.  Shade loving plants usually grow best in moist areas.  The adaptations that make shade plants do well in the shade, such as thin leaves with lots of pores make them highly susceptible to drought.  Conversely, the adaptions of plants who are drought tolerant, such as small leaves, make it hard for them to grow in shade.

Conifer areas are a case in point.  Mature spruce trees shed snow easily and use a lot of water.  The are under their canopy is often quite dry.  Typical shade plants struggle to grow in such conditions.  There are, however, a few shade plants that do well in dry shade.  Here are three suggested plants for dry shade.

Columbine

Columbine Plant

Columbine is native to the Eastern United States.  It comes in a variety of colors, but the native one is red with yellow stamins.  This plant grows 1-3 feet tall and spreads to about 1.5 feet.  The foliage is green with three to five lobes.  Columbine attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.  Birds eat the seeds.

Lily of the Valley

Lilly of the Valley

Lily of the Valley has long, green leaves and white bell-shaped flowers.  It grows to a height of ten inches and a spread of twelve inches.  Lily of the valley can spread aggressively under ideal growing conditions.  While beautiful, all parts of the plant are poisonous to dogs, cats, horses, and humans.

Hosta

Hosta

Hostas come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Some have solid green leaves, while others have variegated leaves.  There is even one with blue-green leaves.  They do well in shade and their leaves can burn or fade in heavy sun.  Dappled shade is ideal, but part shade or even full shade work for this plant.  Hostas range from four inches tall to just over 2.5 feet tall, so you can probably find a Hosta to fit your landscape.

Texture, Form, And Foliage Color Rule

Most shade-loving plants do not have long, continuous blooms.  They may have colored blooms that do not last long or tiny flowers that are hard to see.  By using texture, form, and colored foliage instead of blooms to choose plants, you can grow a very beautiful shade garden.

Texture

Using plants with different textures provides both sensual and visual interest.  A plant like lamb’s ear, an herb with a soft, fuzzy leaf that is silver-green contrasts nicely with a plant with thick, leathery leaves like a magnolia tree.  If a magnolia tree is causing the shade, lamb’s ear makes an excellent ground cover around it.

Form

Form refers to how the plant looks when growing.  Trees are generally tall, as are shrubs.  Perennials come in upright forms, spreading forms, and creeping forms.  Mixing shade plants that have different forms creates visual interest.  It also increases the species diversity, so one pest or disease won’t wipe out the whole garden.

Foliage Shape

Wild Ginger

The shape of the foliage can also be of interest.  Almost everyone knows what a maple leaf looks like.  It contrasts with a pine needle.  However, there are lots of foliage shapes in between.  For example, wild ginger has heart shaped leaves and loves shade, making it perfect for a shade garden.

Foliage Color

When you ask someone what color leaves are, most people will answer “green”.  However, not all foliage is green.  Some types of Japanese Maple have burgundy leaves.  Other plants have foliage that is a different color than green.  Of course, most deciduous plants have leaves that change color before they fall in autumn.

Many plants have leaves are variegated with white or yellow.  There are also plants with yellow or white leaves variegated with green.  Picking plants with different variegated patterns can add a lot of interest to a shade garden.  Many plants with variegated leaves love shade.  In fact, some plants have variegated leaves that fade in the sunlight.

Bloom Color

Many shade plants have what biologists term “insignificant” flowers and are planted for the foliage.  These are some shade plants that produce pretty flowers.  Most of them only bloom for a few weeks, however.  Bugleweed is an example and makes a nice ground cover with blue flowers.

Planters

A disadvantage of planting under shade trees is the tree roots.  Tree roots can absorb a great deal of water and nutrients.  They also take up space in the soil so other plants can’t flourish. 

To avoid these problems, you can use planters and urns to hold shade-loving plants that are placed around the area.  In parts of the landscape that see a high level of traffic, these planters should be too big to be easily removed or stolen.

Putting shade loving plants that spread aggressively in planters will help keep them from taking over the landscape.  Herb gardeners do this with mint, which is very aggressive.

Using planters to hold perennials does mean you will need to water them more often than other parts of the landscape.  Limited soil volume means the soil will dry out more quickly than the soil around in-ground plants.  Drip irrigation that comes on twice daily may be necessary if you live in a hot climate.

You can make an attractive shade garden using a variety of plants with interesting textures, forms, and foliage colors.  Shade gardens are a viable option for areas too shady for turfgrass.

Columbine Plant

Columbine Plant

The Eastern Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) is a perennial known for its bold red and yellow flowers, which look like hanging lanterns. Its unique shape and vibrant colors make it a favorite of pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant brings life and beauty to any landscape. If you want to add a splash of color to indoor or outdoor spaces, the Columbine Plant is worth buying. It is relatively small, so you can put it anywhere on your property without crowding other shrubs or trees. It tends to grow in clumps, meaning you can get multiple flowers and stems from a single seed or group of seeds. It will typically grow to about one to three feet in height. The flowers it produces can be almost any color, depending on the exact species that you happen to have. Standard colors include blue, pink, and yellow; in some cases, you may see multiple colors from the same one. Eastern Columbine (Aquilegia Canadensis)  One of the critical benefits of planting this item in your garden is that it can attract deer, rabbits, and other forms of wildlife. However, they tend to be most attractive to deer or rabbits looking for food. Fortunately, they tend to resist these creatures, which means you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about having to relocate or replant your flowers. Columbine Plants Are Great For Pollinators  You will also notice that it is attractive to pollinators such as bees or hummingbirds. Ultimately, you can help other flowers in your yard or nearby areas thrive while having something fascinating to look at when you're outside each day. Columbine Plant Does Well In Cold Weather The growth cycle of it tends to be a relatively short one. Therefore, you will notice the rush of color in your garden and wherever you decide to put it. As they generally do well in cold weather, you can put them out almost whenever you want without ruining them. The Columbine Plant Produces Seeds Quickly A final benefit to buying Columbine Plant is that it creates new seeds quickly on its own. Therefore, you may notice multiple shoots on your property without investing much time and money. How Many Types of Columbine Plants Are There Different species of columbine flowers, different flower sizes and shapes. There are the species Aquilegia vulgaris and Aquilegia caerulea to name but two.  What Is the Care of Columbine Plants in Other Climates?  The Columbine plant also comes in hybrids that grow well in climates of any kind. The first, and perhaps the most crucial, need of Columbines is a little shade during the warmer months and good drainage so roots don't get rotted.  When Should I Plant Columbine Seeds Plant columbine seeds after a frost or late fall. : Spread the seeds on the moist soil, then firmly plant them down; regularly water them until they sprout into seedlings.  How do I propagate the Columbine plant?  They're pretty easy to propagate as, once they open their blooms, they release seeds, which you need to plant in well-drained soil. Please note: Columbine seeds are not very fast germinating so it could take weeks to notice results!  What about the life of a columbine plant Columbine is only able to last for about 2-3 years. But they self-seed and so live on in the garden for many years to come. Deadhead as much as possible for longevity.

Lily Of The Valley - TN Nursery

Lily Of The Valley

Lily Of The Valley is a delicate perennial plant with nodding, bell-shaped white flowers and fragrant, sword-shaped leaves. It creates a charming ground cover in shaded garden areas and offers various benefits when integrated into landscaping designs. Its graceful appearance, sweet fragrance, adaptability, and contributions to outdoor spaces' visual and sensory aspects make it a prized addition to gardens. Lily Of The Valley is a classic. It is associated with purity, virtue, humility, and compassion. The proper scientific name is Convallaria majalishe, and the plant is related to good fortune, joy, hopefulness, happiness, prosperity, and blessings. The herbaceous perennials begin to bloom in mid-May and continue to maintain a delightfully fragrant display until summer officially arrives in mid-June. With its exquisitely tiny bell-shaped, ornamental flowers, the shrub has a low-key and understated beauty. Rather than a profuse explosion of showy blossoms, these plants have a quietly powerful presence. They can grow almost anywhere, whether in a valley or not. Slim curving stems give expression to glossy, deep green leaves that gently cradle sweet clusters of delicate, refined flowers. Each bell-shaped blossom hangs from a stem like a precious ornament, while the captivating scent delights the senses. The Symbolic Significance Of Lily Of The Valley (Convallaria majalis) They are associated with May Day. They symbolize a beautiful awakening after a long winter of darkness and hardship. The airy little flowers refresh the weary soul and promise a return to happiness and new hope. When the pretty white bells burst into view, they remind us that warm summers always follow dark winters with their alluring fragrance. Lily Of The Valley Is Used In Perfumes  When the alluring fragrance of them was converted to perfume and cologne in 1954, it inspired a line of products. Then, in 1956, Dior marketed it under the name Diorissimo. It was an instant hit for men and women alike. The lily was Dior's favorite flower and his lucky charm. The Unique Attributes Of Lily Of The Valley Lily Of The Valley can produce a thick carpet of ground cover while filling the air with a captivating scent. The deep green leaves make fabulous bouquets and cut flowers. With their curving stems, the plants can produce up to 12 tiny flowers with up to six tiny petals. The clusters are often included in bridal bouquets. Some bouquets consist entirely of them. The engaging blooms make a lovely statement when used to adorn wrapped gifts for weddings and showers. Where Does Lily Of The Valley Grow Best  It grows in partially shaded to shaded areas in well-drained soil. They prefer a cool, moist area, which makes it suitable for woodland gardens or shaded borders.  Does Lily of the Valley smell like garlic?  Lily of the Valley does not have any garlic-like fragrance at all. However, the plant has a good floral fragrance that is quite refreshing. Can Lily of the Valley be in full sun?  Lily of the Valley can withstand full sun in regions that get cold all year. In warm areas, excessive sun causes the leaves to wilt or may hinder the plant's growth.  How long does Lily of the Valley last?  The flowers of Lily of the Valley can last from two to three weeks in late spring. Its foliage maintains an eye-appealing view all through the growing season.  How Does Lily Of The Valley Smell  Lily of the Valley has a unique fragrance; it is sweet and fresh with some hint of citrus. This is commonly used in perfumes and is well appreciated for its relaxing and mood-boosting features.

hosta plant - TN Nursery

Hosta

Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. Hosta is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta (Plantain lilies) Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. Hosta Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. This Hosta Is Good for Pollinators Hosta blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. What conditions do hostas thrive in? These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. Hostas grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  How do I care for hostas in winter?  Hostas are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  Do hostas come in different sizes and colors?  Hostas come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  How can I keep slugs and pests away from my hostas?  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the hostas. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.  Can hostas be grown in containers?  Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.

Sweet Bay Magnolia - TN Nursery

Sweet Bay Magnolia

The Sweet Bay Magnolia is a medium-sized evergreen tree with highly fragrant white flowers and elliptical leaves, often found in wetlands and coastal areas. It is a versatile and visually appealing tree that offers a range of benefits when incorporated into landscaping projects. This magnolia species contributes to the aesthetic beauty, structure, and functionality of outdoor spaces with distinctive features and adaptability. One of the standout benefits of using it in landscaping is its graceful appearance. Sweet Bay Magnolia, also known as the "beaver tree," "castor-wood," and "swamp sassafras," is an ornamental, semi-evergreen plant known for its fragrant flowers, scarlet-red fruit, and lush foliage. Colonists introduced the plant into European gardens in the late 1600s, where it was welcomed with open arms. The Native Habitat Of Sweet Bay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) Native to the eastern and southeastern Atlantic coasts of the United States, it grows naturally in swamps and shaded and open woodlands. This late-blooming tree flower from late April to July can bear fruit from July through October. The Appearance Of Sweet Bay Magnolia It can reach 10 to 35 feet tall, sometimes a 50-foot height in the deep South. Its compound, slender, upright trunks branch out horizontally and support shiny, three-to-six-inch-long oblong leaves that are dark green on top with silvery-white undersides. They contrast with the plant's creamy-white, cup-shaped blooms that scent the air with a delicate, sweet, lemony fragrance. Each solitary blossom has up to twelve petals and is two to three inches long. The flowers will open after dawn and close up at twilight, lasting two to three days. Fruits appear later as clusters of bright red seeds. Sweet Bay Magnolia Trees Are A Favorite Of TN Nursey Customers Gardeners appreciate it for its ornamental appeal in a variety of landscape designs. It works well in extensive gardens and along woodland edges. The tree is adaptable enough to suit patios and borders where its aromatic fragrance can be appreciated. Wetter sites near ponds can also accommodate this plant nicely. Since the blooming season is relatively late, frost is rarely a concern. The Ecology Of Sweet Bay Magnolia Those who want to enhance biodiversity in their landscapes will find that Sweet Bay Magnolia makes a beautiful habitat for birds and small mammals. The tree's fruit attracts a variety of songbirds, woodpeckers, wild turkeys, bobwhite quail, and many more species. Many birds use the plant's leaves to construct their nests. Squirrels and chipmunks also find food and shelter in the magnolia's dense foliage, and deer browse its leaves and twigs yearly. If you're looking for a handsome plant that will bring aromatic beauty to your yard, it will surely bring pleasure for many seasons. How big do Sweet Bay magnolias get? Sweet Bay magnolias are recognizable by the velvety, dark green leaves with a chalky white centre and the white, citrus-scented flowers. They could be matt grey in colour, multi- or single-stemmed.  How do you identify a Sweet Bay magnolia tree?  Sweet Bay magnolias can be identified by their glossy, dark green leaves with a powdery white base and their perfumed, white, citrus-scented flowers. They might have matte grey surfaces, and either be multi-stemmed or single-stemmed.  What does a magnolia tree look like when it's blooming?  In particular, when flowering, the Sweet Bay magnolia has goblet-shaped white flowers on the backdrop of the dark leaves. The flowers are scented and mainly bloom from late spring up to summer.  What is the lifespan of a magnolia tree?  The species of magnolia known as Sweet Bay has an expected life span of 80 to 120 years if well cared for. As a result of better water supply and insect control, the plants last for several years.  Do magnolia trees lose all their leaves? Sweet Bay magnolias are usually semi-evergreen; thus, while they can lose most of their leaves in cold areas, they maintain most of the foliage in other areas that have milder climates. During spring, they may change old foliage with new ones, and when the temperatures cool, drop them in favor of others.

Sugar Maple Tree - TN Nursery

Sugar Maple Tree

Sugar Maple Tree is a large deciduous tree native to North America. It is prized for its vibrant fall foliage, distinctive five-lobed leaves, and the sap used to make maple syrup. The tree benefits landscaping endeavors, enriching outdoor spaces' aesthetics, ecological balance, and functional aspects. This majestic deciduous tree offers unique qualities that contribute to various dimensions of landscape design. If you have ever enjoyed syrup, you have the tree to thank. Of course, it is celebrated for more than just its ability to create sweet treats. It can also be used to add color to your property or a neighborhood as a whole. What Does Sugar Maple Tree (Acer saccharum) Look Like As with most deciduous families, this one will grow to more than 100 feet tall in ideal conditions. However, it can grow to 150 feet in some instances. It also has a canopy of green leaves during the spring and summer and turns multiple colors in the fall. It also contains flowers and winged seeds that are used to create offspring. How Long Does It Take for Sugar Maple Tree to Mature They will typically take at least a decade to produce fruit, but it may only take a few years to produce flowers. In addition, they will grow relatively quickly, which is why they can be a great addition to private property or public parks. Sugar Maple Tree Root System Is Strong Like others, the Sugar Maple Tree will create a robust root system that can help stabilize soil or prevent erosion. Therefore, it can be an ideal choice in wet areas or on slopes where a landslide could quickly decimate a landscape. In addition to protecting your property, keeping erosion to a minimum can help keep others in your neighborhood or community safe. Support Wildlife By Planting Sugar Maples Trees  Planting a Sugar Maple Tree on your property can provide birds and other animals with a place to live or food to survive. For instance, squirrels and other smaller creatures will eat the seeds, while deer may be interested in chewing on leaves. Some animals may be attracted to the foliage itself or the benefits it can provide other than being a food source for them. How long does pure maple sugar last?  Pure maple sugar has an indefinite shelf life, provided it is kept in a cool, dry place and stored in a nonporous container.  What is the difference between a sugar maple tree and a regular maple tree?  Sugar maple has its name from the sweet sap used to produce maple syrup and brilliant fall colors. It has smooth, free bark, especially when young, and matures at a slower pace into fine-graded dense wood compared to the others.  Where do sugar maples grow best?  In soil characteristics, an ideal location for sugar maple is well-drained, fertile, and with organic matter. It favors shaded, humid conditions and is found in the climate of the Northern Territories USDA zones 3-8, in forest and country regions.  Are sugar maples edible?  Yes, some type of sugar maple sap is edible and is used for making pure maple syrup. Moreover, fresh young leaves of sugar maple trees or plants are consumed either raw or cooked in moderation.  What is the best fertilizer for sugar maples?  A slow-release fertilizer that is best used for sugar maples is one with a nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium combination, such as 10-10-10. It is best used at the start of spring so as to encourage appropriate growth and impressive foliage.

Wild Ginger - TN Nursery

Wild Ginger

Wild Ginger is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial plant with heart-shaped leaves and unique, reddish-brown, tubular flowers often hidden beneath the foliage, typically found in shaded woodlands. It is a beautiful, versatile groundcover perennial that can be a valuable addition to landscaping. Here are some of its attributes and benefits when used in landscaping. Wild ginger is a plant that many may need to be made aware of. An ideal addition to a lawn that needs some variety in terms of the types and sizes of plants, there are plenty of reasons to start growing this plant where you live. Let's take a look at what it has to offer and how it might benefit your space. Wild Ginger (Asarum) Acts As a Larger Groundcover This plant is the perfect groundcover for those who want something that's a bit larger and can blend in seamlessly with their much smaller and much larger plants. Its heart-shaped leaves can extend up to eight inches tall, helping it seamlessly blend in throughout areas where smaller flowers feel disjointed in contrast with their much taller counterparts. If you have an area where you're having trouble growing grass or want something different, this plant will do! Wild Ginger Attracts Unique Pollinators This plant's flowers do not bloom toward the top. Instead, the jug-like flowers grow near the bottom of the plant. As a result, this attracts pollinators like ants and flies that you wouldn't usually think of as benefitting your garden. If you have other forms of ground cover or smaller plants that may need extra support, this plant could be an excellent addition to attract the pollinators your other plants aren't bringing in. Wild Ginger Is A Great Groundcover For Shady Areas Groundcover is a great way to reduce the number of weeds in your garden or yard. Because ground cover takes up the bulk of the planted space, it's much harder for weeds to take root and begin spreading. Should some weeds manage to start growing, they're much easier to pluck out. This plant is perfect if you want to reduce weeds and have something intentionally growing in your space. Reduces Soil Erosion With Wild Ginger Wild Ginger root systems spread across the space and keep soil in place, reducing soil erosion and ensuring that your soil retains its beneficial qualities. It also protects the roots of nearby plants, which is essential if you're looking to create a robust, beautiful garden. How To Identify Wild Ginger  Wild ginger is easily recognized by its heart-shaped leaves. It has small, inconspicuous brownish-purple flowers that are formed near the ground level and may not be noticed because of the foliage.  Where Does Wild Ginger Grow Best  Wild ginger grows best in shaded woodland environments with moist, well-drained soils with organic matter.  How Does Wild Ginger Reproduce  Wild ginger is propagated by rhizomes and creates a ground cover gradually. It can also spread through seeds but mainly reproduce through rhizomes.  How fast do Wild Ginger plants grow  Wild ginger grows slowly. But once it's established, it all add up to make a habitual ground cover that doesn't need frequent care. How Ginger And Wild Ginger Are Different  Ginger is derived from the rhizomes of a tropical species called Zingiber officinale, also called a ginger spice. Wild ginger is Asarum genus, and it is more preferred as an ornamental plant and as a ground cover.

Bugleweed Plant - TN Nursery

Bugleweed Plant

Bugleweed is a ground-covering perennial plant known for its low-growing, spreading nature and attractive foliage. It is often used in landscaping for its vibrant leaves and small spikes of blue, purple, or pink flowers. It will quickly fill empty spaces, making it an excellent choice for areas with poor soil or where other types struggle to thrive. It is a versatile and attractive perennial with numerous landscaping benefits. Its unique characteristics and adaptability make it popular in various garden settings and design schemes. Bugleweed Plant (Ajuga) Has Deep Violet Blooms Bugleweed, called carpet bugle, ground pine, bugle, or ajuga, includes 60 related species of flowering perennials. The different species are found in the wild in Australia, Africa, Asia, and Europe. Because of their impressive attributes, they are also introduced in yards and gardens outside these areas. With a closer look at the many benefits of introducing bugle to your space, it is the perfect new addition to your landscaping. Bugleweed Plant Is A Fast-Growing Ground Cover This creeping type grows up to 20 inches tall, although some species are as short as two inches. It proliferates by shooting runners on top of the soil. These runners create a fascinating look, and they quickly sprout new stems. In the wild, it blankets meadows and other open spaces, so it is well-suited for putting in areas of your yard that need ground cover. Notably, the plant is often used to prevent soil loss from erosion because of its ability to spread rapidly across steep slopes. Weeds are a nuisance that inevitably requires frequent attention. They can overtake your yard and leave it unkempt when not tended to regularly. As a fast-moving ground cover, bugles crowd out the weeds. As a result, their growth could be improved, and they will quickly become less of a nuisance in your space. You can start enjoying your yard more rather than worrying about keeping up with the weeds.  Bugleweed Plant Has Stunning Blooms The Bugleweed Plant is a fascinating species with dark, shiny leaves that grow in an opposite pattern. During the flowering season, usually in the middle or end of the spring months, spikes shoot up that may be as tall as 10 inches above its base. These spikes produce purple, violet, or blue flowers. The flowers have long, flowing petals that some people describe as looking like a woman’s skirt. Bugleweed Is Deer and Rabbit Resistant  Most rodents and mammals do not like the morsel of it and stay away from it. As a result, it is ideal for yards where deer and other animals forage and cause damage. At the same time, insects are attracted to its pollen. You may spot moths, butterflies, and bees on the blooms during the flowering season. As essential pollinators, these insects are crucial to maintaining a healthy ecosystem in your yard. What is Bugleweed and how does it get its name  Ajuga reptans or Bugleweed is a low growing, easy to grow evergreen perennial with lovely green leaves and dark purple to blue flowers. It is tolerant of many soil types and is usually cultivated in shade, which will give you an overlying layer of leaves that will keep weeds at bay.  Is Bugleweed simple to grow?  Bugleweed is also one of the easiest plants to maintain because it will do just about anything. It adapts to almost any soil and doesn't require a lot of water once planted.  Is Bugleweed a groundcover  Bugleweed works very well as a ground cover because it forms a carpet and spreads quickly. It helps in the weeds as the plant has thick leaves throughout the season.  Will Bugleweed attract pollinators?  The purple or blue flower spikes of Bugleweed are particularly interesting to bees and butterflies. Bugleweed is an attractive addition to your garden and certainly beneficial if you want to encourage local wildlife.  Can Bugleweed be grown in containers Bugleweed can be easily propagated in containers; therefore, it would make a good addition to a patio or balcony. The pots or containers should be well drained.

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