Bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ is a dwarf-sized cultivar of the Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans). Unlike its parent plant’s foliage that can grow up to 8 cm, this cultivar develops leaves no taller than 5 cm. Bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ is named after the bronze-brown, chocolate-like color of the foliage.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Noted for its extremely dwarf habit and chocolate foliage, Ajuga reptans ‘Chocolate Chip’ (Carpet Bugle) is a ground-hugging perennial prized for its bluish-purple flower spikes on display in mid to late spring. The blossoms rise slightly above the foliage of tiny, glossy, oval leaves which are chocolate with burgundy highlights.
Over time, it will form a dense mat of attractive rosettes. Ajuga reptans is valued as a wonderful spreader making a colorful groundcover, which will thrive in shady areas where grass has difficulty growing. Evergreen in most regions, it is perfect for planting between stepping stones, in wall crevices, or in rock gardens.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Sunlight is very important for bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’, directly influencing how the plant grows. If exposed to direct sunlight, the plant will reduce the quantity and density of its foliage, but will flower more. In contrast, if grown under partial shade, the plants will have lush, big and healthy leaves, but will bloom less.
Temperature
The optimum growing temperature for bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ falls around 21 ℃, but the plant is also capable of staying green during the sub-zero temperatures of the winter. Once established, the bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ is partially drought-tolerant, although very prolonged dry spells could lead to the plant withering.
Watering
Bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ is a plant that thrives in humid environments, often found in the understory of dense forests where moisture is abundant. It displays a strong preference for consistent humidity and is not particularly drought-tolerant. Watering every week helps maintain its preferred water balance. As an evergreen plant, bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ retains its leaves year-round, which contributes to its continuous need for regular watering. Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for containers where soil moisture can be easily controlled.
Soil
Bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ needs good drainage to grow well – poor drainage in combination with warm weather makes the plant less resistant to certain diseases. Regarding soil type, the plant is not too picky, although it will thrive in sandy-type soils. Bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ loves slightly acidic soils, with an ideal pH ranging between 3.7 to 6.5.
Fertilizing
For bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’, a balanced nutrition fertilizer is ideal, promoting vigorous growth and enriched foliage color. Fertilize bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ in spring and again mid-summer, adhering to a moderate dosage as per product instructions to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’. Special care should be taken when applying, ensuring even distribution without direct contact with foliage.
During the active growth season, bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip”s nutritional demands increase; adjusting fertilization frequency accordingly enhances health. Always water bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ after fertilizing to aid in nutrient absorption and prevent root burn.
Planting Instructions
Bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ can easily be grown from seed. Sow in mid-spring and choose a bright spot for maximum blooms. Mixing in some organic compost with your planting soil will improve water retention and soil richness. Simply press the seeds gently into the soil and keep the soil moist throughout the germination process.
Pruning
Pruning is not required, but it’s always a good idea to trim off any diseased or injured plant parts. Deadheading is useful at the end of every flowering season. This is because the bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ is a prolific self-seeder and can spread very quickly. Removing the flowers once they have finished blooming will prevent seed formation, keeping your bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ where you want it to be.
Propagation
Bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ is a low-growing, ground cover perennial known for its attractive foliage and flowers. Propagation is primarily achieved through division, which should be done carefully to ensure minimal root disturbance. Divide bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ by gently separating rooted sections that have at least a few leaves, and replant these immediately at the same soil depth they were previously growing. Consistent moisture and light shade are beneficial to encourage the newly planted divisions to establish.
Transplanting
The prime time for moving bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip’ falls during the gentle awakening of late spring to the onset of summer’s warmth or when autumn reclaims the heat of summer. Seek a location that offers partial shade with moist, well-draining soil for this ground-hugging perennial, ensuring a smooth transition and better root establishment.
Repotting
For the petite ground cover ‘bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip”, repot every 2-3 years, ideally in spring to align with its growth cycle. Select wide, shallow containers as ‘bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip” spreads horizontally. Post-repot, use well-draining soil, and maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. This allows ‘bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip” to recover and flourish with its vibrant foliage. A friendly reminder: ‘bugleweed ‘Chocolate Chip” thrives with attentive but uncomplicated care.
III. Uses and Benefits
A remarkably low-maintenance plant, this excellent performer is highly versatile and can be used in many situations: groundcovers, on banks or slopes, under trees or shrubs. It is also great in containers!