creeping bugleweed; Ajuga decumbens
A low-growing perennial herb in the mint family, native to East Asia. Used in traditional medicine.
Creeping bugleweed grows in sunny grassy areas.
Creeping bugleweed is sometimes used as a folk medicine.
Katakana spelling is common for this plant name; usually written in kana.
Kanji form is rare and mainly found in botanical or historical contexts.
The Japanese name キランソウ is of uncertain origin. The kanji 金瘡小草 literally means 'gold sore small grass', possibly referring to its medicinal use for wounds.