Ajuga x tenorii 'Chocolate Chip'

Sizes available: 1 quart

Basics: zone 3-9, 3" x 12-18", morning sun to shade, pretty blue flower spikes over dark purplish-green foliage in mid-spring, adaptable as to soil type and moisture needs

Common names: Bugleweed, Carpet Bugle

Synonym: Ajuga x tenorii 'Valfredda'

Family: Lamiaceae

Origin/Distributuion: Species ajugas are found in various parts of Europe, northern Africa, and southwestern Asia and have naturalized in many parts of the world including New England.

Habitat: This is an amiable plant and although A. repens, and A. nipponensis, for example, might prefer a moist, partially shady area, most ajugas are tolerant of a wide range of conditions. 

More: This dwarf cultivar is pretty darned adorable. It is a strong grower and looks good even when not in flower. Great for a container, the front of a border, or a partially shaded rock garden. Deer and rabbits are not interested. Ajugas are strong naturalizers and you will frequently notice them blooming in grassy areas and unmowed lawns. They can be mowed and walked on and are a potential addition to a low-growing mix of plants as a flowering lawn or lawn replacement. However, you will want to combine them with early spring blooming bulbs and then with other strong growers that are just as bossy as they are. 

Nursery: Van Berkum

Image Credit: Honey Petal Plants