Ajuga reptans Chocolate Chip (Carpet Bugle)

Noted for its extremely dwarf habit and chocolate foliage, Ajuga reptans 'Chocolate Chip' (Carpet Bugle) is a ground-hugging perennial prized for its bluish-purple flower spikes on display in mid to late spring. The blossoms rise slightly above the foliage of tiny, glossy, oval leaves which are chocolate with burgundy highlights. Over time, it will form a dense mat of attractive rosettes. Ajuga reptans is valued as a wonderful spreader making a colorful groundcover, which will thrive in shady areas where grass has difficulty growing. Evergreen in most regions, it is perfect for planting between stepping stones, in wall crevices, or in rock gardens.

• Gardeners treasure the showy foliage of Ajuga reptans and its carpet habit more than its flowers. Ground-hugging, this perennial plant grows up to 3 in. tall (7 cm) and 6-9 in. wide (15-22 cm), and remains attractive most of the year.
• A part shade to full shade lover, it thrives in average, medium, well-drained soils and tolerates almost any soils provided they are moist and humusy. Will tolerate full sun if constant moisture is provided.
• Provide good air circulation to avoid crown root problems. This plant is rabbit and deer resistant!
• A remarkably low-maintenance plant, this excellent performer is highly versatile and can be used in many situations: groundcovers, on banks or slopes, under trees or shrubs. It is also great in containers!
• Propagate by division, separating rooted stems.
• Generally pest free. Watch for powdery mildews
• May be mowed after flowering in order to get rid of the spent flower spikes and clean up the planting.
• Ajuga reptans species is native to Europe. It is potentially invasive and may form dense evergreen mats that crowd out native vegetation.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.