Ajuga tenorii 'Chocolate Chip'

– Attracts bees and pollinators during spring bloom

– Dense growth may shelter beneficial ground-dwelling insects

– Not typically a major food source for birds or mammals

– Spring: New foliage flushes, flowering begins

– Summer: Spreading continues; flowers fade

– Fall: Foliage color intensifies in cool weather

– Winter: Evergreen in milder zones, semi-evergreen elsewhere

Groundcover for small spaces, edging, between stepping stones, rock gardens, container gardens, underplanting shrubs, erosion control

– Narrow, oblong, deep green to chocolate-bronze leaves

– Glossy texture with a low-growing, compact habit

– Foliage holds color year-round in mild climates; semi-evergreen to evergreen

– Bloom time: Mid to late spring

– Color: Violet-blue spikes

– Flowers are small and clustered tightly above the foliage

– Offer early nectar for bees

– Site selection: Choose a well-drained site with good air circulation. Ajuga thrives in a variety of soils but dislikes soggy conditions.

– Planting depth: Plant at soil level; do not bury the crown.

– Spacing: Space plants 6–12 inches apart to allow spreading while forming a dense mat.

– Best time to plant: Spring or fall for easiest establishment, though it can be planted any time with adequate moisture.

– Deadhead flower spikes after bloom to maintain tidy appearance

– In late winter or early spring, trim back any winter-damaged foliage

– May cut back stolons if it spreads beyond desired area

– Prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil

– Water deeply during dry spells in the first growing season

– Established plants are moderately drought tolerant

– Performs well in part shade to full sun

– Best foliage color in part shade

– In hotter climates, prefers afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch

– Not typically harvested for ornamental or edible purposes

– Propagation by dividing rooted runners (stolons) in spring or fall is most effective

– Generally low fertilizer needs

– Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if soil is nutrient-poor

– Avoid overfertilizing to prevent overly vigorous spread or legginess

– Pollination type: Self-pollinating

– Pollinators: Attracts bees and other small insects

– Flowers have both male and female parts, though cross-pollination may occur via insects

Pairs beautifully with other shade- or part-shade-loving plants, especially those with contrasting textures or foliage color:

– Hosta varieties – Large leaves contrast with Ajuga's small foliage

– Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Foliage color pairing enhances visual interest

– Ferns – Add graceful, upright texture

– Tiarella (Foamflower) – Good seasonal overlap and similar growth habit

– Pulmonaria – Early blooms and silvery foliage pair well

– Carex (Sedges) – Soft, arching forms complement the spreading habit

– Lamium or Brunnera – Create layered groundcovers under trees and shrubs