Bugle, Lungememen
Ajuga bracteosa
Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae
What it is like
Ajuga bracteosa is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is in leaf all year. 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): 0.2
Where it is found
Grassy slopes in Sichuan and Yunnan Provinces. Moist ground and grassy slopes, often along the sides of tracks, at elevations of 700 - 4000 metres in Nepal.
E. Asia - Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal and China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant is aromatic, astringent and tonic. It is useful in the treatment of agues. The juice of the root is used in the treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery. The leaves are used in the treatment of fevers as a substitute for quinine.
Antiperiodic: Counteracts recurring illnesses such as malaria.
Aromatic: Having an agreeable odour and stimulant qualities.
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Dysentery: Used in treating dysentery - an infection of the intestines that causes diarrhoea containing blood or mucus.
Tonic: Improves general health. Slower acting than a stimulant, it brings steady improvement.
Other
Rating: 0
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 at least in the milder 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: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
Its other names
Local names
Bugle, Lungememen, nil pate, nilkanti, Jan e Adam