Ajuga reptans 'Mahogany' (Bugleweed)

Ajuga reptans 'Mahogany' is a showy, excellently colored cultivar of bugleweed, an evergreen, low-growing perennial; the 'Mahogany' cultivar renowned for its glossy, purple caramel brown foliage and its vivid powder- or cobalt-blue flowers that bloom from early spring to mid summer. 'Mahogany' differs from its parents species with its dark brown-purple tinted leaves, add to its attractive, ornamental appeal year-round, as well as its faster creeping behavior, sending out runners that can rapidly smother invasive weeds

Ajuga reptans typically grows to only 4-6" tall, and thrives in full sun to partial shade as well as a variety of soil types when provided with adequate water. Bugleweeds in general are valued as a low-maintenance, weed-suppressing groundcover, and 'Mahogany' makes for an attractive and colorful underplanting or weed control choice throughout the year thanks to its part-shade tolerance. With the added benefits of resistance to both deer and rabbit damage as well as mild tolerance of foot traffic, Ajuga reptans 'Mahogany' works well as a path planting even in shadier locations.

Note: Care should be taken in choosing a good planting location for Ajuga of any kind, as it has been listed as invasive in woodland environments in several states due to its dense foliage and its tendency to spread, which can result in the crowding-out of native plants.