Product Description
Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' Thirty (30)ct flat
Common Name: Bugleweed, Carpet Bugleweed
Fantastic tricolored foliage in shades of creamy-white, rose-burgundy, and dark green make this ajuga different than all the others. In the fall, the mature leaves turn a deep bronze while the newer growth takes on a rose tone.
From mid to late spring, short spikes of blue flowers stand upright above the low, spreading foliage. The effect is stunning when planted en masse.
'Burgundy Glow' tends to spread more slowly than many other varieties in this species, making it suitable for use as an edging. It also fits nicely into rock gardens and mixed container plantings.
A. reptans is an evergreen groundcover that can grow in the shade of large trees where grass is hard to establish. Unlike many perennials that are grown only for their flowers, Ajuga is prized for its attractive, colorful foliage that looks nice all year.
Ajuga grows best in partial to full shade but will also grow in full sun if constant moisture is provided. It will tolerate any soil, even poor ones, as long as it is well-drained. Good air circulation is essential to avoid crown rot.
Height: 6.0 Inches
Spread: 8.0-10.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10
Flower Color: Purple shades
Foliage Color: Near-black shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun) - Full Shade (< 4 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Mid Spring - Late Spring
Attracts Butterflies and Hummingbirds
Bee Friendly
Deer Resistant
Evergreen
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Container, Easy To Grow, Edging, Ground Cover
Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow', also known as Carpet Bugle or Bugleweed, is a popular ground cover plant known for its colorful foliage and ability to thrive in shady areas . Let us delve into the world of Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' and discover what makes this plant so special. This cultivar originates from Europe and is a cultivar of Ajuga reptans, a species native to Europe, northern Africa, and southwestern Asia.
Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' boasts several noteworthy characteristics:
- Foliage The most striking feature of this plant is its vibrant, tricolored foliage. The leaves exhibit a captivating mix of creamy-white, rose-burgundy, and dark green, creating a stunning tapestry of color in the garden . In the fall, the mature leaves deepen to a rich bronze, while new growth takes on rosy hues, adding further interest . The combination of bronze and rosy hues in the fall creates a unique multicolored effect that extends the visual interest of this plant beyond the flowering season. The foliage forms rosettes that stay close to the ground, creating a dense mat that effectively suppresses weeds.
- Flowers While the foliage is the main attraction, Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' also produces delicate blue flowers on short spikes that rise above the foliage in mid to late spring . The flowers attract pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, adding to the ecological value of this plant . It is a good choice for attracting butterflies to your yard . It also attracts bees and hummingbirds , making it a beneficial plant for pollinators.
- Growth Habit Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' is a low-growing, spreading perennial that typically reaches a height of 6 inches (15 cm) and can spread to a width of 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) or more . It spreads by stolons (horizontal stems that creep along the ground), forming a dense mat that can cover large areas over time . The specific epithet "reptans" means "creeping," which aptly describes its growth habit . Compared to other Ajuga varieties, 'Burgundy Glow' is a slower spreader, making it more manageable in the garden and suitable for edging . This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, making it suitable for a wide range of climates . It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, making it suitable for urban gardens . It is also deer resistant , making it a low-maintenance option for gardens frequented by deer.
Care Requirements Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. One of the key advantages of 'Burgundy Glow' Ajuga is its low-maintenance nature. It requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners or those seeking a hassle-free ground cover . Here are some key considerations:
- Sunlight This plant thrives in partial to full shade but can tolerate some sun if the soil is kept consistently moist . In hotter climates, afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch . The best foliage color is usually achieved with at least 3-4 hours of sun per day.
- Soil Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' prefers moist, well-drained soil but tolerates a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils . Ajuga is tolerant of a wide range of soils, but prefers rich, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH of 4.5 to 6.5 . Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot or crown rot . It is important to avoid soggy soil conditions, which can lead to crown rot.
- Water While this plant is drought-tolerant once established, it prefers consistently moist soil, especially during hot, dry periods . It can be quite drought tolerant with the correct conditions but can also whither under drought conditions as well . Water regularly, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizer Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' generally does not require heavy fertilization. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer applied in spring is usually sufficient . Mulch around plants with a thin layer of compost or other organic matter to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
- Maintenance This plant requires minimal maintenance. Deadheading (removing spent flower spikes) is not necessary, but it can improve the appearance of the planting . When necessary, cut foliage back to the ground after flowering to rejuvenate the foliage. Mow large areas of bugleweed with a lawn mower; however, in small patches of Ajuga, trim plants back with pruning shears or weed trimmer . To prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor, divide the plants every 2-3 years . Propagate by division, separating rooted stems . Avoid using PGRs as Ajuga can be extremely sensitive to them.
Landscaping Uses Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' is a versatile plant with various applications in the landscape:
- Ground Cover Its spreading habit and dense foliage make it an excellent ground cover for shady areas where grass is difficult to establish . It can be used to cover large areas, suppress weeds, and control erosion . As a ground cover, Ajuga offers several benefits, including weed suppression, erosion control, and a reduction in the need for mowing or weeding . This helps control erosion on your property where heavy run-off is possible . While it can tolerate some light foot traffic, it is not ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic.
- Edging The slower spreading nature of 'Burgundy Glow' makes it well-suited for edging borders, walkways, and flower beds . 'Burgundy Glow' is a particularly good choice for edging because its slower spreading habit makes it less likely to encroach on neighboring plants.
- Rock Gardens Its low-growing habit and tolerance for various soil types make it a good choice for rock gardens.
- Containers Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' can be grown in containers, where its trailing foliage can spill over the edges, adding a touch of color and texture . Because of its spreading habit of growth, it is ideally suited for use as a 'spiller' in the 'spiller-thriller-filler' container combination; plant it near the edges where it can spill gracefully over the pot . It is also a good selection for planting in outdoor containers and hanging baskets.
- Underplanting It can be used to underplant shrubs and trees, providing a living mulch that helps retain moisture and suppress weeds . It can even be planted underneath black walnut trees where many other plants will not grow.
Other Uses Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' can also be used in a variety of other landscaping applications, including:
- Lawn substitute in areas with no foot traffic
- Planting between stepping stones
- Naturalizing and woodland gardens
- Bark replacement around trees and shrubs
- Curbside plantings
- Planted islands in lawns or paved areas
- Softening the edges of retaining walls
- Seating vignettes
- Around water features
- Unique places such as chinks in walls or crevices
- Dry shade areas
- Moist shade areas
- Dry creek beds
- Green roofs
- Crevices in walls or rocks
- Pool areas
- Humid areas
- Areas with kid traffic
- Areas with dog traffic
- Fire resistant landscapes
- Areas with erosion control needs
Companion Plants Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' can be combined with various companion plants to create attractive and diverse garden designs. Here are some recommended companions:
| Plant Name | Characteristics | Benefits of Pairing with Ajuga |
| Ferns (e.g., Lady Fern, Japanese Painted Fern) | Shade-loving, Textural contrast | Create a lush, woodland feel |
| Hostas (various varieties) | Shade-tolerant, Variety of colors and sizes | Add contrasting foliage shapes and colors |
| Spring Bulbs (e.g., Daffodils, Tulips, Crocuses) | Early bloomers, Colorful | Provide a vibrant display in spring |
| Heucheras (Coral Bells) (various varieties) | Shade-tolerant, Colorful foliage | Add contrasting or complementary colors |
| Lamium (Deadnettle) | Shade-loving, Ground cover | Create a dense, weed-suppressing carpet |
| Pachysandra | Shade-tolerant, Ground cover | Provide a contrasting foliage texture |
| Astilbe | Shade-loving, Feathery blooms | Add vertical interest and contrasting textures |
| Brunnera | Shade-tolerant, Silver foliage | Create a striking contrast with Ajuga's dark foliage |
| Phlox | Sun-loving, Colorful blooms | Add a pop of color in sunny areas |
| Balloon Flower | Sun-loving, Unique flower shape | Introduce a different texture and color |
| Fountain Grass | Sun-loving, Wispy foliage | Add height and movement |
| Thyme | Sun-loving, Small leaves | Provide a delicate texture and fragrance |
| Annuals (e.g., Salvia, Lobelia, Violas) | Versatile, Colorful blooms | Add seasonal color and interest |
Potential Problems While generally low-maintenance, Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' can be susceptible to certain problems:
- Crown Rot Crown rot can occur in humid conditions and heavy soils, especially in the southern United States . To prevent crown rot, ensure good air circulation, avoid overwatering, and divide plants when they become overcrowded.
- Winter Conditions Ajuga may not perform well in wet winter conditions or long, hot dry spells.
- Invasiveness Ajuga reptans is considered potentially invasive in some regions of the United States due to its spreading habit . Because ajuga naturalizes easily, spreading by stolons, it can become invasive. Avoid planting too close to flower beds, lawns, or other areas where you would have to keep removing it . It is important to be mindful of its growth and prevent it from spreading into unwanted areas.
- Pests and Diseases Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root-knot nematodes . Monitor plants regularly and take appropriate measures if any issues arise.
Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' is a truly remarkable plant that deserves a place in every garden. Its vibrant, multicolored foliage provides year-round interest, while its low-maintenance nature makes it a joy to grow. With its versatility in landscaping applications, 'Burgundy Glow' can be used as a ground cover, edging, in rock gardens, containers, or as underplanting for shrubs and trees. By understanding its characteristics, care requirements, and potential problems, gardeners can successfully incorporate this attractive and adaptable plant into their landscapes and enjoy its beauty for years to come.
Why not try adding Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow' to your garden this season? Imagine a lush carpet of colorful foliage edging a walkway, cascading from a container, or adding a vibrant touch to a shady corner. Combine it with ferns, hostas, or spring bulbs for a captivating display. With its easy care and versatility, 'Burgundy Glow' is sure to become a favorite in your garden.
Thirty (30) plants per flat (or tray). Approximate Plug Measurements: 3 inches deep x 2 inches wide.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
