Chocolate Chip Bugleweed

Ajuga reptans 'Chocolate Chip'

Lamiaceae

• Part shade to full sun (best foliage color with 4–6 hours of sun)
• 2–4" tall x 12–18" wide, spreading by stolons
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil
• Flower Color / Bloom Time: Violet-blue; mid- to late spring
• Wildlife Benefits: Bees; deer and rabbit resistant

Chocolate Chip bugleweed is a dwarf selection of Ajuga reptans, a European species long naturalized and, in some parts of the country, considered weedy or potentially invasive due to its vigorous spread by stolons. It grows in a wide range of light conditions from partial shade to full sun and tolerates most soils, but is susceptible to crown rot in heavy, poorly drained clay — a relevant caution for Spokane's clay soils — so good drainage is important, especially with winter moisture.

Extremely dwarf, glossy, chocolate-brown foliage with burgundy highlights forms a dense, low mat of tidy rosettes, with short spikes of violet-blue flowers rising just above the foliage in spring.

The spring flowers are attractive to bees, and the aromatic foliage is generally avoided by deer and rabbits.

A useful groundcover for shady spots where grass struggles, between stepping stones, in rock garden crevices, or as a container spiller. Because of its spreading habit, site it where hardscape (walkways, driveways, patios) or clear bed edges can contain its growth, particularly if used near lawns or perennial beds where volunteer spread could become a nuisance; avoid heavy, poorly drained clay to reduce crown rot risk.