Ajuga ‘Burgundy Glow’ is a striking and versatile groundcover perennial known for its distinctive burgundy, cream, and green variegated foliage. Its dense growth habit helps to suppress weeds, while its early spring flower spikes provide nectar for pollinators.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 in x 1 - 2 ft
Bloom Time: Spring (April to May)
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade; vibrant foliage color appears best in partial shade
Soil Preference: Prefers moist, well drained soil; adaptable to various soil types, including slightly acidic conditions
Watering Needs: Moderate water needs; ensures even moisture for the best foliage color and flowering
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant due to its pungent foliage scent and taste
NATIVE STATUS
Cultivar of Ajuga reptans, which is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has become widely naturalized in many parts of North America, where it is valued for its low maintenance growth habit and its ability to provide aesthetic and ecological benefits in garden settings.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts early season butterflies such as Spring Azures, Common Blue, and Cabbage Whites. The nectar rich flower spikes provide an important early food source when fewer flowers are blooming.
Bees
- The plant’s dense, upright flower spikes are especially attractive to bumblebees, honeybees, and solitary bees. These pollinators can easily land on the flowers and feed on nectar during the cooler spring months, helping to ensure the survival of local bee populations.
Beneficial Insects
- Attracts ladybugs and lacewing larvae, which help control aphids, mites, and other small pests. These natural predators enhance the garden’s ecosystem, offering biological pest control.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- For best results, space 12 - 18 inches apart. This allows enough room for its spreading habit while keeping a dense cover for weed suppression.
Landscape Placement
- This plant excels in shaded garden beds, under trees, along walkways, and as a groundcover in woodland gardens. It can also be used as a filler between stepping stones or in mixed border plantings where its contrasting foliage can be highlighted against other perennials.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Hosta (Golden Tiara) - Offers light yellow foliage that contrasts with ajuga's dark leaves.
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Pulmonaria (Silver Bouquet) - Its silver spotted leaves complement the bright variegation of Ajuga.
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Heuchera (Obsidian) - Dark almost black foliage creates a dramatic pairing with Ajuga's lighter colors.
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Fern (e.g., Dryopteris erythrosora) - Adds a soft textured contrast to Ajuga's bold foliage.
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Astilbe (Fanal) - Deep red flowers and lacy foliage blend beautifully with Ajuga's colors.
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Brunnera macrophylla (Jack Frost) - Its silvery heart shaped leaves pair beautifully with Ajuga in shaded areas.
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Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Adds delicate foamy flowers that bloom at the same time Ajuga is in full flower.