Ajuga reptans 'Catlins Giant'
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Name | Ajuga reptans 'Catlins Giant' |
| Common Name | Bugleweed 'Catlins Giant' |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous perennial ground cover |
| Height | 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) |
| Spread | Spreading ground cover |
| Foliage | Large, glossy, bronze-purple leaves |
| Flower Color | Deep blue spikes in spring |
| Bloom Time | Late spring |
| Sun Exposure | Partial to full shade |
| Soil | Moist, well-draining soil |
| Watering | Keep soil consistently moist |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Uses | Ground cover, under trees, along borders |
| Notable Feature | Deer resistant, attracts pollinators |
Planting Aspects
-
Site Selection: Plant in partial to full shade.
-
Soil Preparation: Moist, well-draining soil is preferred.
-
Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the nursery container.
-
Spacing: Space plants about 12 to 18 inches apart.
-
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods.
-
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
-
Maintenance: Ajuga reptans 'Catlins Giant' is low-maintenance. Trim back any spent flower spikes after blooming to encourage a tidy appearance.
-
Fertilizing: Generally, Ajuga reptans doesn't require heavy fertilization. A balanced fertilizer in spring may be beneficial.
Ajuga reptans 'Catlins Giant,' commonly known as Bugleweed, is a spreading ground cover appreciated for its large, glossy, bronze-purple leaves. In late spring, it produces deep blue spikes, adding a splash of color to shaded areas. This cultivar is particularly useful as ground cover under trees or along borders. 'Catlins Giant' is deer-resistant and attracts pollinators, making it a versatile and attractive addition to gardens.