Gundelock

ajuga chamaepitys

Also known as: ["False pennyroyal","Ground pine","Mouse's ears"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Ajuga Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A low-growing herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and aromatic foliage, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Ajuga
Botanical Name: Ajuga chamaepitys

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in sunny areas
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to control spread.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an overgrown plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or compacted soil.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Full sun preferred; avoid deep shade; rotate pots for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F); can tolerate mild frosts.

Protect from extreme cold; provide shade in hot weather; maintain consistent temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; stop in winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back stems or shear lightly; remove dead or damaged growth.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushiness; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Leaves may curl or turn purple; growth slows; may die back in severe frost without protection.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Ajuga chamaepitys may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can compromise the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Ajuga chamaepitys is often a sign of water stress, either due to under or overwatering, which can lead to cellular damage and reduced growth if not addressed promptly.

Leaf spots on Ajuga chamaepitys are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in aesthetic damage and potentially reduced photosynthetic capacity if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Ajuga chamaepitys due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Ajuga chamaepitys may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause mild symptoms if eaten.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from eating the plant and seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Ajuga chamaepitys by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets from consuming the plant and consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ajuga chamaepitys contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort skin rash
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact, especially for those with known sensitivities.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ajuga chamaepitys toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the common uses of Ajuga chamaepitys?

A: It is used medicinally and attracts wildlife with its fragrant flowers.

Q: How difficult is it to care for Ajuga chamaepitys?

A: It is easy to care for, requiring low maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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