Ajuga — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Ajuga reptans |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 60–90 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 15.2–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 10.2–20.3 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–61 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–9 |
| Light | Partial sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Division |
Growing directions
Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade, though ajuga tolerates more sun in cooler climates; it spreads by surface stolons to form a dense, weed-suppressing carpet topped by spikes of blue-violet flowers in spring. The low, rosette foliage comes in a range of colors from deep burgundy-bronze ('Caitlin's Giant', 'Burgundy Glow') to chocolate-purple, making it one of the most ornamentally versatile shade groundcovers. In hot, humid climates, crown rot can strike dense stands — improve air circulation by thinning plants if rot appears. Mow lightly after flowering to remove old spikes and encourage a tidier rosette. Spreads aggressively; install edging to keep it out of lawns.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0