Ajuga 'Burgundy Glow'

Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow': A Carpet of Colourful Contrast

With its marbled foliage in shades of burgundy, cream, and dusky green, Ajuga 'Burgundy Glow' adds vibrant, ever-changing colour to the ground layer. This low-growing spreader forms dense mats of scalloped leaves that brighten shady corners and soften garden edges. In spring, short spikes of rich blue flowers rise above the foliage, providing a burst of colour and early nectar for pollinators. Compact and adaptable, this eye-catching ajuga brings foliage flair and dependable groundcover performance to both formal and naturalistic plantings.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 10–15 cm (foliage); up to 20 cm in bloom
• Spread: 45–60 cm and slowly expanding
• Flower Colour: Deep blue
• Flowering Period: Mid to late spring
• Foliage: Variegated burgundy, cream, and green; semi-evergreen
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full sun (best colour with some morning sun)
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of average conditions

Uses and Benefits: 'Burgundy Glow' is ideal for groundcover in borders, under shrubs, along pathways, or spilling from containers. Its variegated foliage brightens shaded areas and creates visual interest even when not in bloom. Deer resistant, weed-suppressing, and pollinator-friendly, it’s a reliable choice for low-maintenance, colourful planting combinations.

Companion Plants: Pair Ajuga 'Burgundy Glow' with Heuchera 'Berry Timeless' for layered shades of pink and burgundy foliage and flowers. Add Salvia nemorosa 'Bumbleberry' for upright magenta spikes that echo and enhance the ajuga’s tones. Introduce Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' for strong vertical movement and a contrasting grass texture that grounds the composition.

Care Instructions: Plant in part shade to full sun in moist, well-drained soil. Water during dry periods to maintain colour and coverage, especially in sunnier spots. Trim back spent flower spikes after blooming, and thin or divide clumps every few years to rejuvenate growth and prevent overcrowding.

History: A well-loved cultivar of Ajuga reptans, 'Burgundy Glow' was introduced for its striking variegated foliage and reliable performance as a groundcover. Its long-standing popularity comes from its unique colouring, versatility, and easy care.

Final Thoughts: Eye-catching yet low-growing, Ajuga 'Burgundy Glow' delivers colour, texture, and pollinator value—offering a vivid foundation for multi-season plantings with lasting charm.