Ajuga genevensis aka Blue Bugle

Ajuga genevensis is an evergreen perennial in the mint family, Lamiaceae. Its native range runs from Europe to the Caucasus. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Common names include alpine bugle, blue bugle, and Geneva bugleweed. Erect bugle and upright bugle are other names. These names reflect the upright form described by the RHS.

The plant forms clumps of soft, rounded, sage-green leaves. White hairs give the leaves a silver cast. Each leaf can reach about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] long. Garden plants reach 0.33–1.64 feet [0.1–0.5 metres] in height and spread. They take two to five years to reach full size. The RHS describes less spread than in other bugleweeds. Chicago Botanic Garden lists its shape as creeping. Both sources support its use as a low groundcover.

Short flower spikes rise above the leafy clumps. Their deep blue blooms appear in spring and continue into summer. Chicago Botanic Garden gives May to June as its bloom period. The evergreen leaves keep their presence beyond the flower season. This mix of leaves and flowers suits beds and borders. The RHS also suggests edging, banks, slopes, and wildlife gardens. Plants can grow in patio pots and other containers.

Choose moist soil with good drainage and plenty of humus. The RHS accepts chalk, clay, loam, and sand. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit this species. Its detailed care notes favour partial sun through full shade. Those notes warn that full sun can scorch the leaves. Chicago lists a wider light range, including full sun. A shaded site follows the more cautious RHS care guidance. Chicago gives moderate watering needs and USDA zones 3–9. The RHS rates its cold hardiness as H7.

Routine pruning is not needed, and the RHS lists few pest problems. Powdery mildew can affect the plant, so disease remains a concern. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists resistance to deer. Divide clumps in late autumn or early spring to make more plants. Its restrained spread makes it useful for defined garden edges. The supplied sources do not establish food uses or toxicity. They also give no species-level details about its fruit.