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Ajuga reptans
( Catlin's Giant Common Bugleweed )

Excellent, fast spreading ground cover with large, dark bronze-purple leaves that reach up to 6 inches long. Quickly forms a dense, lusterous mat of rosette clumps. Bears blueish-purple flowers on spikes up to 8 inches tall from spring to early summer. Able to withstand damp, shaded soil. Holds color well in full sun. Nice contrast with Hostas, Pachysandra and Ferns.
Important Info :

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Characteristics
Cultivar:Catlin's Giant  
Family:Lamiaceae  
Size:Height: 0 ft. to 0.5 ft.
Width: 0 ft. to 3 ft.  
Plant Category:ground covers, perennials,  
Plant Characteristics:spreading,  
Foliage Characteristics:evergreen,  
Foliage Color:dark green, red to burgundy,  
Flower Characteristics: 
Flower Color:blues, purples,  
Tolerances:deer, drought, pollution, slope,  
Requirements
Bloomtime Range:Mid Spring to Early Summer  
USDA Hardiness Zone:3 to 9  
AHS Heat Zone:2 to 2  
Light Range:Deep Shade to Full Sun  
pH Range:4 to 8.5  
Soil Range:Mostly Sand to Mostly Clay  
Water Range:Dry to Moist  

Plant Care

Fertilizing
How-tos : Fertilization for Annuals and Perennials

Annuals and perennials may be fertilized using: 1.water-soluble, quick release fertilizers; 2. temperature controlled slow-release fertilizers; or 3. organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizers are generally used every two weeks during the growing season or per label instructions. Controlled, slow-release fertilizers are worked into the soil ususally only once during the growing season or per label directions. For organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, follow label directions as they may vary per product.

Light
Conditions : Full to Partial Sun

Full sunlight is needed for many plants to assume their full potential. Many of these plants will do fine with a little less sunlight, although they may not flower as heavily or their foliage as vibrant. Areas on the southern and western sides of buildings usually are the sunniest. The only exception is when houses or buildings are so close together, shadows are cast from neighboring properties. Full sun usually means 6 or more hours of direct unobstructed sunlight on a sunny day. Partial sun receives less than 6 hours of sun, but more than 3 hours. Plants able to take full sun in some climates may only be able to tolerate part sun in other climates. Know the culture of the plant before you buy and plant it!

Watering
Conditions : Normal Watering for Outdoor Plants

Normal watering means that soil should be kept evenly moist and watered regularly, as conditions require. Most plants like 1 inch of water a week during the growing season, but take care not to over water. The first two years after a plant is installed, regular watering is important for establishment. The first year is critical. It is better to water once a week and water deeply, than to water frequently for a few minutes.

Planting
Problems
Fungi : Leaf Spots

Leaf spots are caused by fungi or bacteria. Brown or black spots and patches may be either ragged or circular, with a water soaked or yellow-edged appearance. Insects, rain, dirty garden tools, or even people can help its spread.

Prevention and Control: Remove infected leaves when the plant is dry. Leaves that collect around the base of the plant should be raked up and disposed of. Avoid overhead irrigation if possible; water should be directed at soil level. For fungal leaf spots, use a recommended fungicide according to label directions.



Diseases : Southern Blight

Plants with Southern blight have lesions on the stem at, or near, the soil line. These lesions develop rapidly, girdling the stem and resulting in a sudden and permanent wilting of the plant. High temperatures (above 85 degrees F, 29 degrees C) favor the disease. The fungus attacks a wide range of plants and survives for long periods in soil. To control, treat with a recommended fungicide according to label directions.

Miscellaneous
Glossary : Evergreen

Evergreen refers to plants that hold onto their leaves or needles for more than one growing season, shedding them over time. Some plants such as live oaks are evergreen, but commonly shed the majority of their older leaves around the end of January.

Glossary : Perennial

Perennial: traditionally a non-woody plant that lives for two or more growing seasons.

Glossary : Ground Cover

Aground cover is any low growing plant that is planted in a mass to cover the ground. Shrubs, vines, perennials, and annuals can all be considered ground covers if they are grouped in this fashion. Ground covers can beautify an area, help reduce soil erosion, and the need to weed.

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