Embracing Moody Colors: Gardening Trend for 2024

by serenity w – December 14, 2023

A Celebration of Ajuga Reptans, Chocolate Ajuga, and Red Trillium

In gardening and landscaping, the pursuit of beauty often takes center stage. Vibrant, eye-catching colors dominate the scene, with gardens and flowerbeds bursting with life in a riot of hues. However, there is a growing appreciation for the subtler, moodier colors in the horticultural world. These deep, rich, and often understated shades bring a sense of calm, mystery, and sophistication to any outdoor space. We will explore the world of moody colors and the beauty of three remarkable plants: Ajuga reptans, Chocolate Ajuga, and Red Trillium.

Ajuga Reptans: The Enigmatic Groundcover

Ajuga reptans, commonly known as bugleweed or carpet bugle, is a versatile and charming perennial plant that thrives in moody garden settings. Its low-growing habit and captivating foliage make it a favorite among gardeners seeking to embrace more subdued colors. The leaves of Ajuga reptans vary in color from deep green to purple or bronze, depending on the cultivar. These shades provide an excellent backdrop for its delicate blue or purple flowers, which rise on spikes in spring. The contrast between the somber leaves and the bright blossoms creates a striking effect that adds depth and intrigue to the garden. One particularly captivating variety of Ajuga reptans is the Chocolate Ajuga (Ajuga reptans 'Chocolate Chip'). True to its name, this variety features dark, chocolate-brown foliage that is almost velvety in appearance. The rich, deep tones of Chocolate Ajuga lend an air of mystery and elegance to any garden bed. Planting in clusters or as a ground cover adds sophistication to the landscape. Ajuga reptans is not only about aesthetics; it's also an incredibly adaptable and hardy plant. This makes it an excellent choice for challenging areas in the garden where other plants may struggle. It is a valuable groundcover due to its ability to spread and create a lush carpet of foliage, which reduces the need for extensive maintenance. To make the most of Ajuga reptans in a moody color palette, consider pairing it with other plants that share its preference for low-light conditions and rich, dark hues. Hostas with deep green or blue foliage, ferns with delicate fronds, and heucheras with burgundy leaves all make excellent companions. These combinations create an enchanting garden tapestry that exudes tranquility and grace.

Chocolate Ajuga: A Study in Dark Allure

As mentioned earlier, Chocolate Ajuga is a captivating variation of Ajuga reptans. Its rich, velvety foliage has earned it a special place in the hearts of gardeners looking to embrace moody colors in their landscapes. This variety's unique coloration results from its high concentration of anthocyanin pigments, which give the leaves their deep, chocolate-brown hue. The dark, almost brooding appearance of Chocolate Ajuga makes it a compelling choice for those who appreciate the subtler, more enigmatic aspects of gardening. This plant can take center stage in a garden that celebrates moody colors. Its low-growing nature makes it an ideal groundcover, spreading to create a lush carpet of dark foliage that draws the eye and invites contemplation. One of the most intriguing qualities of Chocolate Ajuga is how its color changes throughout the growing season. In cooler weather, the leaves tend to be even darker, while in the warmth of summer, they may take on a slightly greener hue. This garden's dynamic nature lends itself to an ever-evolving masterpiece of moody colors, adding an element of surprise and nuance. Pairing Chocolate Ajuga with other plants in the same color family or contrasting shades can yield striking results. Combine it with deep burgundy heucheras, dark purple hellebores, or even black mondo grass for a truly dramatic display. The interplay of these moody colors creates an atmosphere of quiet intensity that captivates all who enter the garden.

Red Trillium: The Dark Beauty of Woodlands

Moving beyond groundcovers, let's explore the world of woodland gardens and introduce the captivating Red Trillium (Trillium erectum). This native North American wildflower is known for its subtle yet intense beauty, making it a perfect addition to any moody garden palette. Red Trillium is aptly named for its deep maroon, almost black, petals that cradle a central cluster of three leaves. This plant flourishes in the dappled shade of wooded areas, where its dark and enigmatic blooms contrast with the backdrop of lush green foliage. The somber elegance of Red Trillium is a testament to the allure of moody colors in the natural world. This perennial wildflower prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil and is often found in the wild in eastern North America. Gardeners who appreciate the tranquility of woodland settings can bring the enchantment of Red Trillium to their own outdoor spaces by creating shade gardens or woodland borders. When designing with Red Trillium, consider complementing its dark blooms with other shade-loving plants that share its moody color scheme. Ferns, such as the native Ostrich Fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris), with their feathery fronds, make excellent companions. Additionally, the deep purple flowers of bleeding hearts (Dicentra spectabilis) or the subtle elegance of wild ginger (Asarum canadense) can enhance the sense of mystery and sophistication in a woodland garden.

Embracing the Moody Color Palette

In a world often dominated by vibrant and bold colors, the subtle beauty of moody shades provides a welcome respite. Plants like Ajuga reptans, Chocolate Ajuga, and Red Trillium allow gardeners to create landscapes with sophistication, tranquility, and a touch of mystery. We celebrate nature's quieter, more enigmatic aspects by embracing the moody color palette. These plants remind us that beauty can be found in the shadows and that elegance is in the natural world's deep, rich tones. Whether used as groundcovers, border plants, or woodland gems, these species bring a sense of calm and depth to our gardens, creating spaces where one can genuinely immerse oneself in the beauty of moody colors.

Products from the article

Ajuga Reptans - TN Nursery

Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed

Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant Ajuga Reptans, sometimes called Bugleweed Plant, is a classic ground-cover perennial with rich foliage and beautiful purple flowers. Gardeners love it because it fights off weeds and makes soils healthier. This low-growing, blooming groundcover plant is popular for several reasons beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal. One benefit is its wildlife-friendliness. The species is adept at attracting pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition for homeowners interested in sustainability. Characteristics of Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant This plant also offers soil stabilization on steep banks and in flood-prone areas. Its long roots grab onto the soil and prevent it from being eroded. Given its hardiness, it requires minimal maintenance.  The plant thrives in numerous soil types and doesn't mind the sun or shade. If left in the ground for long enough, it produces a dense canopy, which helps it fight weeds even more. Ideal Growing Conditions of Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant This plant prefers well-drained soil. It is hardy and low maintenance for those homeowners who want a plant they don't have to fuss over. Gardeners mostly plant it in loamy or clay soils or other fertile areas. The groundcover can be planted in filtered sun, but it thrives in shade and is drought resistant; its large leaves excel at collecting any light that passes through tree canopies or becomes available earlier or later in the day. Attributes of This Groundcover Low-maintenance ground cover plant with attractive purple flowers Can survive in low-light environments, and direct exposure to the sun Requires occasional pruning and fertilization for healthy spring brooms Suitable for homeowners wanting to create more sustainable gardensGrows to around 1 foot tall under ideal conditions with dense coverage Flowers are this plant's biggest attribute. It is a classic ground-cover perennial with rich foliage and beautiful purple flowers that "shoots" from the center of the plant. Gardeners love it because it fights off weeds and makes soils healthier.  Perfect For Soil Erosion It's popular for several reasons beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal. One benefit is its wildlife-friendliness. The species is adept at attracting pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition for homeowners interested in sustainability. It also offers soil stabilization on steep banks and in flood-prone areas. Its long roots grab onto the soil and prevent it from being eroded. Given its hardiness, it requires minimal maintenance. It thrives in numerous soil types and doesn't mind the sun or shade (either is okay). If you leave it in the ground for long enough, it produces a dense canopy, helping it fight weeds even more. Ideal Growing Conditions  You can plant it in full sun, but the plant prefers shade, provided it receives proper watering. Its large leaves excel at collecting any light that passes through tree canopies or becomes available earlier or later in the day. If planting multiple plants, keep them 8 to 12 inches apart. Ajuga Reptans can crowd easily, leading to bulb wastage. It's a super attractive ground cover plant that isn't fussy about soil type or maintenance. Spring Blooms Low-maintenance ground cover plant with attractive purple flowers Can survive in low-light environments and direct exposure to the sun Requires occasional pruning and fertilization for healthy spring brooms Suitable for homeowners wanting to create more sustainable gardens Grows to around 1 foot tall under ideal conditions with dense coverage.
From $8.99
From $8.99
hosta plant - TN Nursery

Hosta

Hosta - Plantain Lilies Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. It is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. It Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. The blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. They grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  They are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  They come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the plants. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.   Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.
From $16.99
$16.99
Ajuga Reptans - TN Nursery

Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed

Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant Ajuga Reptans, sometimes called Bugleweed Plant, is a classic ground-cover perennial with rich foliage and beautiful purple flowers. Gardeners love it because it fights off weeds and makes soils healthier. This low-growing, blooming groundcover plant is popular for several reasons beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal. One benefit is its wildlife-friendliness. The species is adept at attracting pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition for homeowners interested in sustainability. Characteristics of Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant This plant also offers soil stabilization on steep banks and in flood-prone areas. Its long roots grab onto the soil and prevent it from being eroded. Given its hardiness, it requires minimal maintenance.  The plant thrives in numerous soil types and doesn't mind the sun or shade. If left in the ground for long enough, it produces a dense canopy, which helps it fight weeds even more. Ideal Growing Conditions of Ajuga Reptans - Bugleweed Plant This plant prefers well-drained soil. It is hardy and low maintenance for those homeowners who want a plant they don't have to fuss over. Gardeners mostly plant it in loamy or clay soils or other fertile areas. The groundcover can be planted in filtered sun, but it thrives in shade and is drought resistant; its large leaves excel at collecting any light that passes through tree canopies or becomes available earlier or later in the day. Attributes of This Groundcover Low-maintenance ground cover plant with attractive purple flowers Can survive in low-light environments, and direct exposure to the sun Requires occasional pruning and fertilization for healthy spring brooms Suitable for homeowners wanting to create more sustainable gardensGrows to around 1 foot tall under ideal conditions with dense coverage Flowers are this plant's biggest attribute. It is a classic ground-cover perennial with rich foliage and beautiful purple flowers that "shoots" from the center of the plant. Gardeners love it because it fights off weeds and makes soils healthier.  Perfect For Soil Erosion It's popular for several reasons beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal. One benefit is its wildlife-friendliness. The species is adept at attracting pollinators to the garden, making it an excellent addition for homeowners interested in sustainability. It also offers soil stabilization on steep banks and in flood-prone areas. Its long roots grab onto the soil and prevent it from being eroded. Given its hardiness, it requires minimal maintenance. It thrives in numerous soil types and doesn't mind the sun or shade (either is okay). If you leave it in the ground for long enough, it produces a dense canopy, helping it fight weeds even more. Ideal Growing Conditions  You can plant it in full sun, but the plant prefers shade, provided it receives proper watering. Its large leaves excel at collecting any light that passes through tree canopies or becomes available earlier or later in the day. If planting multiple plants, keep them 8 to 12 inches apart. Ajuga Reptans can crowd easily, leading to bulb wastage. It's a super attractive ground cover plant that isn't fussy about soil type or maintenance. Spring Blooms Low-maintenance ground cover plant with attractive purple flowers Can survive in low-light environments and direct exposure to the sun Requires occasional pruning and fertilization for healthy spring brooms Suitable for homeowners wanting to create more sustainable gardens Grows to around 1 foot tall under ideal conditions with dense coverage.
From $8.99
From $8.99
hosta plant - TN Nursery

Hosta

Hosta - Plantain Lilies Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. It is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. It Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. The blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. They grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  They are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  They come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the plants. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.   Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.
From $16.99
$16.99
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