Carpet Bugle
Also called bugleweed or ajuga
(Ajuga reptans)
 
Produces deep green, 2- to 4-inch shiny leaves, forming rosettes flat on ground or up to 5 or 6 inches high.  Blue flower spikes in spring rise 4 to 6 inches above foliage.  Several cultivars with multicolored leaves are now available.  Turns bronzy-red in fall.
 
Zone: 3-10
Light: sun or light shade
 
Comments
Considered one of the best low-growing ground covers.  While it prefers sunlight or partial sunlight, it can be useful in deeply shaded areas.  Prefers moist, enriched soil.  The multicolored cultivars are especially useful in such situations as self-contained edging around patios or front entrances.  Space plants 6 to 12 inches apart.  Keep watered in hot, dry weather.  Feed early spring to maintain dense cover.  Make sure plants don't smother over winter from wet tree leaves.  Cover lightly with brush or evergreen prunings.