Ajuga Iva

Description

Ajuga Iva, also known as “Ivy-leaved Bugle” or “Bugleweed,” is a low-growing perennial plant species that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and foliage.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ajuga Iva has a low-growing, spreading habit and can reach a height of 15-30cm. It has glossy, evergreen leaves that are dark green and have a slightly hairy texture. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers of Ajuga Iva are small, tubular, and arranged in whorls on spikes that rise above the foliage. The flowers can be purple, blue, or white in color and bloom in late spring to early summer.

Care Guide

Water

Ajuga Iva prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Ajuga Iva does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.

Soil

Ajuga Iva prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it is important to avoid waterlogged or compacted soil.

Sunlight

Ajuga Iva can grow in full sun to partial shade, but it prefers partial shade in hot climates.

Hardiness Zones

Ajuga Iva is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ajuga Iva is generally a hardy plant and is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and to remove any affected leaves or branches.

Habitat

Ajuga Iva is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky or sandy soils in open woodlands, meadows, and along roadsides.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Ajuga Iva drought-tolerant?

A: Ajuga Iva prefers moist soil and is not drought-tolerant. It should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.

Q: Can Ajuga Iva be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Ajuga Iva can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.

Q: How often should Ajuga Iva be fertilized?

A: Ajuga Iva does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.

Q: How tall does Ajuga Iva grow?

A: Ajuga Iva can reach a height of 15-30cm.

Related Plants

• Ajuga Reptans
• Ajuga Genevensis
• Ajuga Pyramidalis
• Ajuga Chamaepitys

References

• “Ajuga Iva.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1812/Ajuga-iva/Details. Accessed 29 June 2021.
• “Ajuga Iva.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277778&isprofile=0. Accessed 29 June 2021.
• “Ajuga Iva.” The Spruce, https://www.thespruce.com/ajuga-iva-plant-profile-5075576. Accessed 29 June 2021.