Bugle and Foamflower are often considered for the same spot in the garden (ground cover, flowers, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Ajuga reptans 20 cm × 1 m after 10 years
A low ground cover that spreads quickly by runners and knits a dense carpet under trees and shrubs in part shade or shade, with spikes of blue flowers…
Tiarella cordifolia 30 cm × 45 cm after 10 years
A woodland ground cover with maple-like leaves that last through mild winters and airy, foamy spikes of white or pink flowers floating above them in…
Foamflower grows larger: 30 cm × 45 cm after ten years, against 20 cm × 1 m for Bugle.
Bugle is hardier: down to -40 °C, against -34 °C for Foamflower.
Foamflower is cheaper: about €4.60 at the size usually planted, against about €8.90 for Bugle.
|
Feature
|
Bugle
|
Foamflower
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Ground cover | Ground cover |
| Size after 10 years | 20 cm × 1 m | 30 cm × 45 cm |
| Ultimate size | 10–30 cm × 0.3–1 m | 15–45 cm × 30–60 cm |
| Growth rate | Fast | Medium |
| Light | Part shade, Shade | Part shade, Shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Acidic | Average garden soil, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Semi-evergreen | Semi-evergreen |
| Flowering | April–June, blue | April–June, white, pink |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Low |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Planting distance | 25 cm | 30 cm |
| Typical price | approx. €8.90 | approx. €4.60 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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