Creeping Bugleweed
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Creeping Bugleweed

Ajuga reptans

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajuga_reptans

Overview

Ajuga reptans is commonly known as bugle, blue bugle, bugleherb, bugleweed, carpetweed, carpet bugleweed, and common bugle, and traditionally as St. Lawrence plant. It is an herbaceous flowering plant in the mint family Lamiaceae, native to Europe. It is also a component of purple moor grass and rush pastures, a Biodiversity Action Plan habitat in the United Kingdom.

Habitat fragmentation and loss of ancient woodland sites pose significant threats to remaining populations. Climate change and increased drought stress are reducing suitable habitat conditions, while invasive species competition further pressures vulnerable populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

The natural habitat of Ajuga reptans spans across Europe, extending to the middle taiga subzone of northeastern Russia. The plant thrives in the understory of mixed and parvifoliate forests, benefiting from the higher soil nitrogen and lower acidity these forests provide compared to pure coniferous stands.

TERRESTRIAL· majorTERRESTRIAL· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Creeping Bugleweed classified as Endangered?
Creeping Bugleweed is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Habitat fragmentation and loss of ancient woodland sites pose significant threats to remaining populations. Climate change and increased drought stress are reducing suitable habitat conditions, while invasive species competition further pressures vulnerable populations.
Where does Creeping Bugleweed live?
Creeping Bugleweed occurs in Åland Islands, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, and Armenia (plus 79 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Creeping Bugleweed?
The main threats to Creeping Bugleweed are ai-1. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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