Key Features

• Growth Habit:
  • Low-growing, spreading evergreen to semi-evergreen perennial groundcover
  • Typically grows 4–6 inches tall (8–10 inches in bloom) and spreads 18–24 inches or more by runners
• Bloom Color:
  • Deep violet-blue flower spikes
• Fragrance:
  • Light to no noticeable fragrance
• Fruit Flavor:
  • Not grown for edible fruit production
• Culinary Uses:
  • No culinary uses
• Medicinal & Traditional Uses:
  • Ajuga species have been used historically in traditional European herbal medicine, though Burgundy Glow is grown primarily for ornamental landscape use
• Wildlife Attraction & Pest Resistance:
  • Attracts bees, butterflies, and other early-season pollinators
  • Generally deer resistant
  • Rabbit resistant
  • Resistant to most pests and diseases when grown in well-drained soil
  • Dense foliage helps suppress weeds
• Planting Zones: USDA Zones 3–9
• Sun Preferences:
  • Partial shade to full shade
  • Tolerates full sun in cooler climates if provided with adequate moisture
• Drought Tolerance:
  • Moderate once established
  • Performs best with evenly moist soil
• When to Prune:
  • Remove spent flower spikes after blooming for a tidier appearance.
  • Trim back damaged or overgrown foliage in early spring before new growth begins.
  • Thin or divide spreading clumps every few years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Planting Instructions (From a 3.5" Pot into the Ground)

1. Choose the Location

• Select a location with partial to full shade and well-drained soil.
• Ideal for woodland gardens, borders, rock gardens, slopes, and beneath trees or shrubs.

2. Prepare the Soil

• Loosen soil 6–8 inches deep.
• Mix in compost or organic matter to improve drainage and moisture retention.

3. Dig the Hole

• Dig a hole twice as wide as the 3.5-inch pot and equal depth.

4. Remove from Pot

• Carefully remove the plant from its container.
• Gently loosen any circling roots before planting.

5. Plant

• Place the root ball level with the surrounding soil surface.
• Backfill with soil and gently firm around the roots.

6. Water Thoroughly

• Water deeply after planting.
• Keep soil evenly moist during the first growing season.

7. Mulch

• Apply a light layer of mulch around the plant to conserve moisture while keeping mulch away from the crown.

8. Spacing

• Space plants 12–18 inches apart for quick groundcover establishment.

Overwintering Burgundy Glow Ajuga

In-Ground Plants

• Fully hardy throughout USDA Zones 3–9.
• Evergreen in mild climates and semi-evergreen where winters are colder.
• Foliage may flatten or discolor slightly after severe freezes but typically recovers quickly in spring.

Winter Care Tips

• Apply a light layer of mulch in colder climates to protect roots from repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
• Avoid excessive winter moisture, as poorly drained soil can lead to crown rot.
• Remove damaged foliage in early spring to encourage fresh new growth.

Container-Grown Plants

• Move containers to a sheltered location if possible during prolonged freezing weather.
• Water sparingly throughout winter, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Protect containers from repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can damage the root system.

Burgundy Glow Ajuga is an outstanding groundcover that offers year-round interest with its colorful variegated foliage and vibrant blue spring flowers. Its fast-spreading habit, excellent weed suppression, pollinator appeal, and low-maintenance nature make it an ideal choice for shaded landscapes, woodland gardens, borders, and erosion control.