Ajuga decumbens
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Ajuga decumbens is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.1
Where it is found
Thin woods and hedges in hills and low mountains, C. and S. Japan. Sunny meadows on hill sides from the lowlands to elevations of 1000 metres.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 2
The whole plant is analgesic, decoagulant, depurative, febrifuge and haemostatic. It promotes tissue regeneration. A decoction of the leaves, or the leaf juice, is used internally in the treatment of bladder ailments, diarrhoea, eye troubles etc whilst externally it is applied to burns, cuts etc. A decoction of the stem is bathed onto neuralgic and rheumatic parts. A hot decoction of the seed is used in the treatment of stomach ache and diarrhoea.
Analgesic: Relieves pain.
Anticoagulant: Removes blood clots.
Depurative: Eliminates toxins and purifies the system, especially the blood.
Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.
Haemostatic: Controls internal bleeding.
Miscellany: Various medicinal actions that need more clarification.
Other
Rating:
Miscellany: A rag-bag of items that are difficult to categorise.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a humus-rich, moisture retentive soil and a sunny position.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in the open border. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist