Underused in Australian gardens, Ajuga australis which is commonly known as the Austral Bugle. This is one of two Ajuga species found in Australia.
Description
Best described as a low growing ground cover that forms a dense mat of foliage.Mauve flowers from summer through to autumn appear on spikes above the foliage.
Foliage itself is a mid to deep green with a soft velvety texture, and Ajuga australis will grow well in part shade, however it tolerates full sun as well.
Found widely of South Eastern Australian, from Brisbane to Adelaide this is a low growing perennial which makes a great ground cover plant. It will grow in coastal conditions and is drought and light frost tolerant once established.
Landscaping Uses
Ajuga australis is well suited for use in difficult situations, such as beneath taller trees where it can be used as a flowering ground cover plant.
It is also useful in a cottage garden or in a rock garden, and well suited to planting beneath taller shrubs in containers.
When using as a ground cover, plant at around 80 cm apart to form a quick dense cover. It is a useful plant for erosion control and will grow in semi shaded areas.
How to grow the Australian Bugle
Best in a humus rich well drained soil with some afternoon shade.
Ajuga australis is a drought tolerant plant once established and copes well with a range of soil types.
Mulch around plants to maintain some moisture and control weeds as the plant establishes itself. Over time it will form a dense matt.
Ajuga australis – Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Ajuga australis
- Family – Laminacae
- Common Names – Aussie Bugle, Australian Bugle or Austral Bugle.
- Height – To 40 cm
- Spread – Will form a clump up to 3 metres over time.
- Position – Light shade to part shade.
- Soil – Well drained sandy loam, Native plant potting mix, well drained clay soils.
- Flowers – Mauve on spikes to 15cm. Pink and white flowering forms are also found.
- Flowering period – Summer to Autumn.
- Foliage – Mid green, toothed with a soft texture.
- Frost tolerant – Light frosts only.
- Drought tolerant – Yes once established.
More Information
Ajuga australis is available for sale from the following participating nurseries.
Native grasses, sedges, rushes, lilies, wetland plants, ornamental grasses and grass trees. Contract growing. Cells, tubes and pots. Contemporary water wise garden solutions and revegetation specialists. Unique garden decor, pots and original sculptures. Delivery available. www.plantsandlandscapes.com.au