Ajuga 'Blueberry Muffin'

Ajuga reptans ‘Blueberry Muffin’ is a compact, vigorous bugleweed with small chocolate-brown to purple leaves and upright spikes of clear blue flowers. The [U.S. plant patent](https://patents.google.com/patent/US20110145960P1/en) names Terra Nova Nurseries as assignee and records a two-year-old garden specimen about 7 cm tall and 45 cm wide; [Hortech](https://hortech.com/plant/ajuga-blueberry-muffin-pp22092/) lists an 8-inch maximum height and late-spring blooms. Patent PP22092 was issued in 2011. ## Garden use and season Use this spreading groundcover to fill small gaps, edge a shaded bed, or soften spaces between stepping stones. Its blue flowers appear in spring and can continue into early summer; new growth may mound before extending outward. The patent notes that the leaves are shorter and broader near their tips than those of ‘Chocolate Chip’ ([patent description](https://patents.google.com/patent/US20110145960P1/en)). ## Growing conditions Grow in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade; the plant also tolerates other light conditions when moisture is adequate. Allow room for its stolons, and provide airflow in humid sites where ajuga can develop crown rot. The patent records USDA Zones 6–9; a current grower lists Zone 5, so local performance at the cold edge can vary. ## Maintenance Water through establishment and during prolonged dry weather. Divide a crowded patch if it outgrows its space, and remove runners that cross into lawns or neighboring beds.