Catlin's Giant Bugleweed

Catlin’s Giant is a bold-leaved bugleweed whose bronze foliage forms a low mat and whose blue flower spikes rise above it in spring. It works as a weed-suppressing groundcover beneath shrubs or along shaded borders, where its larger leaves give the carpet more presence than many ajugas. ## Flowers and foliage The evergreen foliage ranges from bronze-green to dark bronze-purple, with upright blue flower spikes in spring. The [South Australian Botanic Gardens listing](https://plantselector.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/Plants/Details/3451) gives a typical height of 10–20 cm and spread of 30–50 cm, and notes that its flowers and foliage attract bees and butterflies. The [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/89998/ajuga-reptans-catlins-giant/details) describes larger glossy bronze-purple leaves and flowering in late spring and summer; bloom timing shifts with climate. ## Siting and spread Part shade is a reliable setting, especially where soil stays moist but drains well. The RHS lists clay and loam and advises avoiding dry conditions. Like other bugleweeds, Catlin’s Giant spreads by stolons, so use it where a creeping mat is welcome and keep its edge away from lawns or small perennial beds. Arkansas Extension notes that ajuga can move into walkways and adjacent plantings and that crown rot is more likely in humid conditions and heavy, poorly drained soils. The Botanic Gardens listing warns that all parts are poisonous if eaten. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and dry periods. Trim or lift runners that move beyond the intended bed, and thin the mat if it becomes crowded. In humid climates, avoid soggy soil and improve air movement around dense planting.