Ajuga australis aka Australian Bugle

Ajuga australis, or Australian bugle, belongs to the mint family. This evergreen perennial comes from eastern and southern Australia. Its range includes Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia. It also grows in southern and central Queensland. It lives in many habitats, from coastal forests to dry mallee country. In the north, it grows mainly in mountain areas. Sources note variation within the species that may warrant further study.

The plant forms a rosette of leaves at ground level. Upright flower stems rise above this low base. Sources give a height of about 0.5–0.7 feet [0.15–0.2 metres]. Flower stems can reach 1 foot [0.3 metres]. The leaves stay on the plant throughout the year. Roots spread outward and can build large colonies. The evidence gives no firm width for a mature plant. This spreading habit makes it useful as a ground cover.

In the wild, Australian bugle grows in open forest and woodland. It also occurs on rocky ground and in disturbed places. Sandy mountain soils form part of its natural habitat. Yet it also grows in soils with much more clay. Garden sources favour soil rich in humus that holds moisture. Good drainage matters, since the plant does not tolerate poor drainage. It accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils when drainage suits it. Reported soil tolerance spans mild acidity through neutral to mild alkalinity.

Sources differ on the best light for garden plants. One favours sun and says the plant cannot grow in shade. Another favours part shade but says it tolerates full sun. It grows in dry or moist soil. Wild plants can also thrive in quite dry sites. It withstands at least moderate frost. PFAF lists USDA zones 5–9. It describes the plant as easy to grow in rock gardens. Root suckers allow it to spread fast. Gardeners can divide plants in spring. They can also sow seed outdoors in spring or autumn.

Insects pollinate the flowers, which have both male and female organs. Sources record no known food use or known hazards. They report traditional use of leaves in salves for wounds, boils, and sores. This records a use, rather than proof of benefit. The supplied evidence gives no species-level account of pests or diseases.