Ajuga Feathered Friends 'Fierce Falcon' displays intense black purple foliage that holds color through all seasons even in deep shade. Its dramatic leaves form dense mats that suppress weeds and soften the base of trees, shrubs, and hardscape. Spikes of vivid blue flowers rise in mid spring offering a high contrast highlight above the dark foliage.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Mid spring
Light Requirements: Full sun to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soils rich in organic matter
Watering Needs: Moderate; benefits from supplemental watering in prolonged heat
Deer Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant
Native Status
This selection was bred from Ajuga reptans, a European species naturalized in North America. While not native, it offers strong ground cover performance in shade gardens and urban landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Blue flowers are visited by honeybees, sweat bees, and small carpenter bees in spring.
Butterflies
- Supports early flying butterflies such as Common Buckeye and Painted Lady for nectar foraging.
Moths
- Low flower spikes are occasionally visited by small moths such as the White Spring Moth and other noctuids.
Beneficial Insects
- Ground hugging growth supports rove beetles, ground beetles, and other predatory insects that help control garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Plant 10 - 12 in apart to quickly achieve dense ground coverage with color impact.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent for shaded beds, under shrubs, courtyard plantings, or between pavers where its foliage makes a bold statement in any season.
Companion Plants
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Airy bloom spikes float above Ajuga’s bold foliage in spring.
- Iberis sempervirens (Candytuft) - Low growing white blooms add crisp contrast and brightness to spring groupings.
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Adds silvery foliage that pairs well with Ajuga’s dark purple tone.
- Heuchera 'Obsidian' - Deep matching foliage provides a cohesive design in shaded borders.
- Hosta 'Blue Angel' - Broad glaucous leaves contrast beautifully with Ajuga’s tight mats.