Prunella
Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
Ground covers, Perennials
Native to Europe. Creeping perennials that spread by surface and underground runners to form low, dense foliage mats. Upright spikes of hooded flowers rise above the leaves in summer. Though names are much confused, all species are tough, tolerant, and deep rooted. They are useful for small-scale ground covers and can endure the occasional footstep; set 1 ft. apart. Choose location carefully, though: these plants are too invasive to risk near choice, delicate rock garden plants. After bloom, shear off spent flower spikes to keep the planting neat and prevent seed formation.
This is the common species. Smaller in all its parts than Prunella grandiflora, with leaves to 2 in. long, 1-ft. stems, and purple or pink flowers just 1/3 in. long.
Prunella vulgaris
This is the common species. Smaller in all its parts than Prunella grandiflora, with leaves t...
Akebia quinata
Native to Japan, China, and Korea. Twines to 15–30 ft. Grows fast in mild regions, more slowly w...
Akebia quinata 'Shirobana'
Bears white flowers.
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