Bugleweed Plant - Ajuga reptans
Bugleweed is a plant commonly used for ground cover. It is native to Europe and is considered invasive in parts of North America. It is an evergreen plant that has multicolored leaves. It stays relatively close to the ground and will spread out to cover an area in a planter or yard. You can transplant the runners to other areas in the late fall or early spring. That is done by finding a mature bunch of bugleweed and digging it up.
Growing the Bugleweed Plant
The plant is desirable as a ground cover because of its multi-colored leaves and beautiful blossoms in the springtime. Every spring, the bugleweed will sprout a vertical string of blossoms. The blossoms will stretch upward, between 6-9 inches in height, and will differ in color based on variety. The blossoms can have a rose or white color, but the most common color is a blue or purple flower.
The plant is hardy and proliferates in a variety of soil conditions. It is incredibly forgiving and will thrive in acidic and alkaline soil. It will grow well in hardiness zones 3-10. It can also grow in direct sunlight and shade and can be used to cover patches of dirt around trees where it is difficult for grass to take root. Another everyday use is for erosion control because of the dense network of roots. They tend to spread out and overtake a planter because of their tentacle-like runners. You may need some edging control to keep it contained. The plant will attract butterflies and hummingbirds during the months it blossoms. In most regions, it will stay green throughout the year and multiply to maturity.