Australian Bugle
Ajuga australis
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Ajuga australis is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Most habitats, especially in open forests, in sandy soils in the montane zone.
E. Australia - New South Wales, Tasmania and Victoria.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The leaves are used as a salve for wounds and also in the treatment of boils and sores.
Salve: Soothes and heals damaged skin.
Other
Rating: 3
Plants can be used for ground cover.
Ground cover: Ground Cover
How it is grown
Prefers a humus-rich, moisture retentive soil and a sunny position. Easily grown in the rock garden, it spreads rapidly by root suckers.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in the open border. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Ground Cover;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist