Also known as Bugleweed · 1.5k saves
Ajuga
Ajuga, the genus most gardeners know as bugleweed. We track 26 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Ajuga varieties
See all 26 Ajuga varieties →Search this genus →
2 species of Ajuga
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Ajuga in Sow
Save the Ajuga you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Ajuga
Whats common across all Ajuga varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 26 most-grown of them.
The Ajuga year
- DivideMarch, April and September100% of varieties
Divide dense patches every 2-3 years to rejuvenate the planting
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March77% of varieties
Remove any winter-damaged or dead foliage before new growth begins
- PruneMay–August46% of varieties
Remove aggressive runners (stolons) regularly to control spread and maintain borders
- PlantMarch, April, September and October42% of varieties
Plant or transplant in early spring or fall
- DeadheadMay and June38% of varieties
Cut back spent blue flower spikes after bloom
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Water during dry spells 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in full sun in hot climates
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely between waterings
What goes wrong with Ajuga
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Slugs | Irregular holes in foliage | Use organic slug bait or handpick during evening |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | Monitor only; NCSU rates it resistant to deer, rabbits, heat, poor soil and black walnut |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning foliage | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning foliage | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply organic fungicide |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide if necessary |
Making more Ajuga
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring or fall
- Gently separate clumps into smaller sections
- Plant divisions immediately in prepared soil
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Allow 6 weeks for establishment
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
- Dip cut ends in rooting hormone
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil mix
- Keep soil moist and place in bright, indirect light
- Roots develop in approximately 4-6 weeks
Ajuga questions
How many types of Ajuga are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 26 distinct Ajuga varieties. The most popular — ranked by 1.5k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Ajuga grow in?
Across its varieties, Ajuga covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Ajuga bloom?
Most Ajuga varieties bloom in mid-spring, late spring, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Ajuga should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.