Bugleweed

ground covershade plantevergreenbee-friendlylow-maintenance

Bugleweed is a robust ground cover that spreads rapidly through runners. From April to June, dense spikes of blue-purple flowers rise above the dark green, glossy foliage. The plant is evergreen and forms a continuous carpet within a single growing season.

See in your garden

Characteristics

Sun: Partial shade, Full shade
Water: Medium
Height: 10–20 cm
Spread: 30–60 cm
Hardiness zone: 3–9
Family: Lamiaceae
Evergreen: Yes
Flower colors: blue, purple
Wildlife value: bees, butterflies

Bloom period

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Care guide

Plant in partial shade or full shade in moisture-retentive soil. Bugleweed tolerates most soil types but prefers a humus-rich substrate. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year. The plant spreads vigorously — control growth by removing runners that venture too far.

Pruning tips

Pruning is not strictly necessary. Mow or trim the plant back after flowering if you prefer a tidier carpet. Remove unwanted runners at the edges to prevent the plant from colonizing adjacent borders.

Good companions

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Ferns

Polystichum setiferum

Soft Shield Fern

The soft shield fern is an elegant, evergreen fern with finely divided, soft green fronds that arch gracefully outwards. The plant forms a beautiful rosette and fits perfectly in shady borders and woodland gardens. Mature specimens can reach up to 120 centimetres across.

Partial shadeMedium

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Trees

Acer palmatum

Japanese Maple

The Japanese maple is a graceful tree or large shrub with deeply lobed, palmate leaves that turn spectacular shades of red, orange, or gold in autumn. Its elegant growth habit makes it a focal point in any garden. Hundreds of cultivars exist, from compact and rounded to broad and spreading.

Partial shadeMedium200–800 cm

White water lily with round floating leaves on a calm pond surface

Aquatic plants

Nymphaea alba

White Water Lily

The white water lily is an iconic aquatic plant with large, round floating leaves and elegant white flowers that rest on the water surface. The blooms open in the morning and close in the afternoon, from June through September. The plant provides shade and shelter for fish and amphibians beneath its leaves.

Full sunHigh10–15 cm