Etymology: Ajuga: an obscure name meaning creeping
Plants: more or less erect perennial, 4"-12" tall aromatic forb; stems square; rhizomes with creeping stolons forming mats
Leaves: opposite, often coppery or purplish in color
Flowers: blue, 5-parted, 1/2" long, irregularly tube-shaped; inflorescence whorls of usually 6 flowers forming a spike from the upper leaf axils; blooms May-June
Fruits: 1-seeded nutlet
Habitat: disturbed areas, lawns
Conservation Status: Introduced - rarely escaped

USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Invasive And Exotic Species of North America: Descriptions, management issues, warnings, photos, etc. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada" Landscape Plants of the Upper Midwest; UW-Extension: Interactive guide providing information on cultivation including: soil, zone, growth rate, landscape uses, pruning, light requirements; with photos and Latin name pronounciation