Ajuga pyramidalis

RHS Plant Profile
pyramidal bugle

Other common names

pyramid bugle

Synonyms

Ajuga metallica hort.

Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial with a basal rosette of dark green leaves. Whorls of small, tubular, dark or pale blue flowers are borne among dark purple bractsin a pyramidal spike 10cm tall in spring and early summer

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Ajuga are mostly spreading, rhizomatous perennials with attractive evergreen foliage, rarely annuals, with whorled two-lipped flowers forming short spikes
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any moist soil in partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to powdery mildews