Description of Ajuga pyramidalis 'Metallica Crispa'

Ajuga pyramidalis 'Metallica Crispa' is a compact bugle with crinkled, metallic-looking leaves. It stays neat and is less of a runner than many Ajuga reptans types, so it suits smaller damp beds.

Appearance

It forms a tight rosette of curled leaves, often showing bronze, purple, and green tones. In late spring it produces a short, pyramidal spike of blue flowers. Height is usually 10 to 20cm.

Care Guide

It likes cool, moist soil and light shade. Hot sun can dry it out and spoil the leaf colour.

• Sun: Part shade is best. Morning sun is fine.
• Soil: Moist, humus-rich soil with good drainage.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially in summer.
• Tidy: Remove old leaves after winter for fresh growth.
• Propagation: Divide rosettes in spring to make new plants.

If it starts to open up, lifting and replanting the tightest rosettes usually restores the look.

Suitability for Bog Garden

This suits bog gardens on the upper damp edge, rock pockets, and raised bog planters where soil stays moist but not flooded.

Use it as a small accent plant near paths.

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