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Description
Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant, also known as Catlin’s giant bugleweed, is a popular herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. The plant produces clusters of stunning blue-violet flowers in late spring or early summer that bloom on spikes that can reach up to 10 inches tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Ajuga |
Appearance
Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant is a low-growing perennial that can reach up to 8 inches tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. The plant has a dense mat of glossy, dark green leaves that are up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and have a slightly ruffled texture. The plant produces tall, upright spikes that can reach up to 10 inches tall and are covered in clusters of stunning blue-violet flowers. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips to help your plant thrive:
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Soil: Plant Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Sunlight: Plant the Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant in partial to full shade. The plant can tolerate some morning sun, but too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause the plant to become less vigorous.
Hardiness Zones: Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, like all plants, it can be susceptible to certain issues. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect the plant:
Slugs and snails: These pests can feed on the leaves and cause damage to the plant. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.
Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and plant in well-draining soil to prevent crown rot.
Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control mildew.
Habitat
Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and along riverbanks. In gardens and landscapes, the plant is commonly used as a ground cover, border plant, or in rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is relatively deer-resistant.
Q: Can I grow Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.
Q: How often should I divide Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant?
A: The plant can be divided every 2 to 3 years in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Ajuga Reptans Catlin’s Giant be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant is not suitable for indoor growing.
Related Plants
– Ajuga Reptans ‘Burgundy Glow’- Ajuga Reptans ‘Black Scallop’- Ajuga Reptans ‘Chocolate Chip’- Ajuga Reptans ‘Bronze Beauty’- Ajuga Reptans ‘Purple Torch’
References
– “Ajuga Reptans – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j360.- “Ajuga Reptans ‘Catlin’s Giant’.” Plant Care Guide, www.plantcareguide.com/ajuga-reptans-catlins-giant/.
