Ground pine (Ajuga chamaepitys)
Care, watering, light and tips for Ground pine on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 4 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Ground pine
Ajuga chamaepitys, commonly known as Ground-pine or Pine-scented bugle, is a small perennial herbaceous plant from the Lamiaceae family, featuring a characteristic resinous aroma reminiscent of pine. Its leaves are narrow and linear, often divided, and it produces small yellow or creamy-white flowers that emerge from the leaf axils. It is ideal for rock gardens, borders, or as ground cover in sunny, dry areas where a low-maintenance plant with a distinctive scent is desired.
Native range
Temperate regions of Europe, the Mediterranean, and Western Asia
Care tips
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, even poor or calcareous ones, tolerating drought once established. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings to prevent waterlogging, to which it is very susceptible. A common mistake is overwatering or planting it in heavy, poorly drained soils, which can lead to root rot. It doesn't require much fertilization and benefits from light pruning after flowering to maintain its shape.
How to save a dying Ground pine
- Warning signs
- Wilted or yellowing leaves, limp stems, lack of flowering. May indicate excessive moisture or poor soil.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If potted, repot with light, well-draining substrate. If in ground, improve drainage with sand.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging is its worst enemy. Also lack of direct sunlight and heavy soils.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Good drainage and adequate sun exposure are key to its recovery.