Ajuga 'Variegata' (Ajuga)

A low growing robust evergreen perennial with variegated leaves and small blue flowers on upright spikes that appear in spring.

History

Originates from shady habitats throughout temperate Europe and Asia.

Planting

Plant Ajuga at least 15cm apart to give them adequate room to spread. Water it well before planting. Dig a hole and loosen the surrounding soil with a fork, especially at the base. Place the plant in the hole so that the compost is at the same level as the surrounding soil. Fill in around the plant with loose soil and firm in the roots to secure the plant. Water again after planting.

Propagation

Division (autumn), Cuttings(in early summer).

Cultivation

Grows well in any reasonably fertile, moist but well drained soil, in shade or sun. It will tolerate drier conditions but will not survive in very boggy ground.

Aftercare

An easy to grow plant with no special aftercare required. It can however, be invasive, so it is better to keep it in check by lifting and dividing or thinning clumps in autumn every two to three years. Cutting back the older leaves after flowering can also rejuvenate the foliage.You can use a light fertilizer in spring, if desired, but is not really necessary if your soil contains a reasonable amount of organic material.

Pests

Trouble Free.

Diseases

Powdery Mildew, Crown Rot.

Other information

Attracts butterflies.

Height/Spread

A low growing, carpet forming, evergreen perennial plant that spreads quite vigorously.  The leaves on this particular cultivar are variegated, grey/green with cream edges and form rosette-like clumps. The small blue flowers, which appear in late spring/early summer, are on compact upright spikes. 

Annual care

May

Cut back the older leaves and spent flower spikes after flowering to rejuvenate the foliage and tidy up the plant.

June

Good time for propogation either by separating rooted stems or taking softwood cuttings.

October

Lift and divide or thin congested areas of Ajuga every two to three years.