Chocolate Chip Ajuga

Ajuga reptans 'Valfredda'

Nature Hills Nursery

Deep Chocolate-Tinted Foliage Creates Year-Round Visual Interest Beyond Typical Green Groundcovers
Thrives in Zones 4-9
Grows 1 ft Tall
Showy Blue, Purple Blooms From Late Spring to Late Summer
Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant

$13⁵⁹

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Plant Size

Quart Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This groundcover is versatile, thriving in anything from full sun to full shade. In hotter climates, providing afternoon shade prevents the foliage from scorching, though more sun typically results in tighter growth and more vibrant bronze-purple coloring.
Soil: It prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. If you have heavy clay, mix in some compost to improve drainage, as "wet feet" or standing water can lead to crown rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water your Chocolate Chip Ajuga twice a week to help the shallow roots establish a firm grip on the soil. Once mature, it is quite drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during extreme heat can cause the leaves to wilt or lose their luster. Aim for about an inch of water per week to keep the "carpet" looking lush and full.

Pruning Tips

Ajuga blooms on old wood from the previous season, so the best time to tidy them up is immediately after the blue flower spikes fade in late spring. You can use a lawnmower on a high setting for large patches or garden shears for smaller areas to remove spent blooms and encourage fresh foliage growth. Think of it like a post-bloom haircut that prevents the plant from wasting energy on seed production.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer once in early spring as new growth appears to fuel the spread of its runners. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this encourages soft, tender growth that is easily damaged by the first frost of winter. Stick to a simple "once and done" approach in the spring for the best results.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Evergreen, Groundcover, Slopes/Erosion Control, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone	3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	1 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Bushy, Spreading
Blooms In	Spring, Summer
Flower Color	Blue, Purple
Foliage Color	Purple, Other
Suitable Space	Outdoors, Container
Botanical Name	Ajuga reptans 'Valfredda'
Species	reptans
Cultivar	Valfredda
Class	Lamiales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

The Chocolate Chip Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans 'Valfredda') is known for its chocolate foliage and beautiful purple-blue flowers. Carpet Bugle is another popular name for this plant. This perennial is valued as a spreader, making a wonderful groundcover!

The leaves are a deep green with burgundy highlights. Along with that, some leaves have a chocolate-colored overlay. The mix of colors in the aromatic foliage is noteworthy indeed, but the flowers bring the whole plant together.

The purple-blue flowers rise above the foliage and steal the show! All of the colors truly make a gorgeous picture of your yard. The flowers themselves bloom in the mid to late spring, creating a warm welcome to summer. Much to the delight of your visiting Pollinators!

Hardy members of the Mint family, you will see Carpet Bugle growing readily throughout USDA planting zones 4 to 9, growing just 3-6 inches tall, and spreading to 6-8 inches wide, but creeping and spreading into low-growing flowering mats. You'll enjoy Chocolate Chip's winter presence in warm climates because the foliage can remain semi-evergreen!

Landscape Application:

Plant your new Chocolate Chip Ajuga in between your garden stepping stones, Rock Gardens, or locations where the grass is having a difficult time growing! They'll be a perfect space-saving addition to any small garden in need of a pop of color and life. Tolerating foot traffic and even being mowed over, plant along the edges of garden beds and along pathways.

This plant is easy to divide or keep tidy, so plant it in small places with ease! Add some to your yard for a new look. The oval leaves and bright colors in the warmer months will enhance your curb appeal! These sun-loving and shade-tolerant perennials even work great in containers as spillers and fillers!

This plant is also amazing for sidewalks and edging, as it gives any location a natural, effortless look. The possibilities are endless with the Bugleweed Chocolate Chip Ajuga. Use it for mass planting or even in a pot, you cannot go wrong with this perennial!

Purple-Blue Flower Spires
Flowers Bloom in Mid to Late Spring
Dark Green & Chocolate Foliage Color
Spreading Ground Hugging Perennial
Flowering Groundcover That's Foot Traffic Tolerant
Mat-Forming Landscape Filler, Container Spillers & Edging

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Provide your Bugleweed with a partial shade to a full sun location. They enjoy the shade every once in a while! If constant moisture is provided, it will thrive in full sun but in hot climates, it appreciates afternoon shade.

Plant your new Chocolate Chip Ajuga in moist soil. Additionally, humusy soil is fit for this plant. Be sure to provide good air circulation and well-drained to avoid crown rot. If this plant is overcrowded or planted in heavy clay, it may be susceptible to crown rot.

Pruning is recommended in the early spring. Some choose to mow this ground covering perennials after flowering to remove spent flower spikes and clean up the area. Be mindful of its spreading abilities! Plant and maintain it so you keep your area looking neat and lovely! Divide as needed and transplant to expand your enjoyment of this pretty plant!

Thrives in Both Sunny & Shaded Locations
Well-Drained Soil
Moderate Moisture to Low Once Established
Clean Mounds In Late Autumn or Early Spring
Easy To Grow, Low-Maintenance & Deer Resistant
Compact Selection From Italy

Add this beautiful, fun perennial to your landscape and you won't be disappointed in the slightest. Order the Chocolate Chip Bugleweed today at NatureHills.com!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones can Chocolate Chip Ajuga survive in?

Chocolate Chip Ajuga thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9. This hardy perennial from the mint family tolerates a wide range of climates and remains semi-evergreen in warmer zones. Plant it confidently in most temperate regions across the United States.

Does Chocolate Chip Ajuga prefer full sun, partial shade, or full shade?

Chocolate Chip Ajuga thrives in both sun and shade conditions, making it extremely versatile. This adaptable groundcover tolerates everything from full sun to full shade in zones 4-9. Plant it wherever you need reliable coverage - it performs well in all light conditions available at naturehills.com.

How often should I water my newly planted Chocolate Chip Ajuga?

Water newly planted Chocolate Chip Ajuga daily for the first week, then reduce to 2-3 times weekly until established. This hardy groundcover adapts well once its roots settle in. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1-2 inches deep and water when dry.

Is Chocolate Chip Ajuga a fast-growing or slow-growing groundcover?

Chocolate Chip Ajuga is a fast-growing groundcover that spreads readily into low-growing flowering mats. This hardy perennial grows 3-6 inches tall and spreads 6-8 inches wide in zones 4-9. Plant it where you need quick coverage between stepping stones or in problem areas where grass struggles.

Will deer eat Chocolate Chip Ajuga or is it deer resistant?

Chocolate Chip Ajuga is generally deer resistant due to its aromatic mint family foliage. Deer typically avoid the strong-scented leaves, making this 3-6 inch groundcover a reliable choice for problem areas. Plant it confidently in zones 4-9 where deer browse, available at naturehills.com.

What size container will my Chocolate Chip Ajuga arrive in?

Chocolate Chip Ajuga typically arrives in a 2.5-inch or 4-inch container depending on availability. Since this perennial spreads readily and grows just 3-6 inches tall, even small plants will quickly establish and fill in your desired area. Plant immediately upon arrival for best results.

What plants pair well with Chocolate Chip Ajuga in garden designs?

Chocolate Chip Ajuga pairs beautifully with hostas, heuchera, and spring bulbs that complement its purple-blue mid to late spring blooms. Its 3-6 inch height works well under taller perennials like astilbe or ferns in zones 4-9. Plant with contrasting foliage colors to highlight the chocolate and burgundy leaves.

Does Chocolate Chip Ajuga require fertilizer or special feeding?

Chocolate Chip Ajuga is a low-maintenance perennial that typically doesn't require regular fertilizing. As a hardy member of the mint family, it thrives in zones 4-9 without special feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can boost flower production, but avoid over-fertilizing as it may reduce the plant's natural spreading habit.

Chocolate Chip Ajuga

Ajuga reptans 'Valfredda'