Ajuga 'Catlin's Giant'

Catlin's Giant Carpet Bugle, Bugleweed, Carpet Bugle

Ajuga reptans ‘Catlin’s Giant’ is a bold, fast-spreading groundcover perennial known for its extra-large, glossy leaves and showy blue flower spikes. Its robust foliage makes it especially effective for quick coverage and strong visual impact in shaded and partially shaded areas.

Key Characteristics and Benefits


Foliage & Color: Large, deep green to bronze-tinged leaves with a glossy finish; noticeably bigger than most ajuga varieties.



Flowers: Upright spikes of violet-blue flowers bloom in mid to late spring, rising above the foliage.



Growth Habit: Vigorous, low-growing spreader that forms a dense mat and suppresses weeds.



Texture & Scale: Bold leaf size provides strong contrast with finer-textured plants.



Size: Typically reaches 6–8 in tall (in bloom) with a 18–24 in spread (spreads indefinitely over time).



Care and Requirements


Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–9



Light: Full sun to partial shade (best performance in partial shade)



Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to average garden conditions



Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established



Maintenance: Low; thin occasionally to maintain vigor



Tolerance: Deer resistant; tolerant of shade and light foot traffic



Summary:
‘Catlin’s Giant’ Ajuga is an excellent choice for large groundcover areas, slopes, borders, under trees, and mass plantings, offering rapid coverage, bold foliage, and dependable spring color.

Plant type

Groundcover

Height

6-10''

Width

10-14''

Hardiness zones

4–9

Growth rate

Moderate

Flower color

Blue

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Bronze

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Loamy well-drained, Moist well-drained

Shape

Spreading

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No