Ajuga reptans Black Scallop
Best low-maintenance groundcover for adding dramatic contrast to shaded garden beds.
The Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop' is a striking evergreen groundcover valued for its rich, dark foliage that shifts from dark green to nearly black, offering excellent landscape contrast. This Bugleweed produces fragrant spikes of deep blue flowers from late spring through early summer. It thrives best in partial to full shade conditions, spreading effectively to cover ground quickly. Mature plants reach about 6 inches tall but spread up to 36 inches wide, making it a low-growing solution for shaded areas. This durable variety is hardy across USDA Zones 4 through 9.
$6.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
29
/ 2727
#29 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-75%
Below average
Cultivar
Black Scallop
/ Black Scallop
Who it's for
- Gardeners living in areas with high deer and rabbit populations
- Gardeners seeking high-contrast, moody foliage for year-round visual interest
- Busy homeowners needing a low-maintenance, weed-suppressing shade groundcover
Who should skip it
- Minimalists who prefer low-maintenance plants without seasonal cleanup
- Gardeners with delicate, slow-growing plants nearby
- Gardeners working with heavy, poorly draining clay soils
Performance breakdown
Groundcover Efficiency
Rapid spreading habit fills empty garden patches with minimal effort.
Shade Tolerance
Thrives in low-light conditions where most flowering plants struggle.
Visual Contrast
Deep, near-black foliage creates a sophisticated backdrop for brighter garden elements.
Hardiness Range
Robust perennial performance across a wide variety of climate zones.
Maintenance Ease
Low-growing nature eliminates the need for frequent pruning or trimming.
Seasonal Interest
Evergreen leaves provide year-round color complemented by vibrant spring blooms.
Key Specs
Cultivar
Black Scallop
Botanical Name
Ajuga reptans
Hardiness Zones
USDA 4-9
Mature Height
6 in
Mature Spread
36 in
Foliage Color
Dark green to black
Flower Color
Deep blue
Sun Exposure Requirement
Partial Shade to Full Shade
Features
- Produces fragrant, deep blue flower spikes
- Excellent evergreen groundcover habit
- Tolerates partial to full shade environments
- Fast-spreading habit covers ground quickly
- Glossy, dark foliage provides contrast
- Hardy perennial lifespan
- Suitable for ground cover use
What customers say
Customers highly value the exceptional quality and deep coloration of the Black Scallop Ajuga. Reviewers consistently report that these plants arrive healthy and establish quickly, showing excellent vigor. The striking near black foliage offers a dramatic aesthetic contrast, making it a superior choice for ground coverage. Its reliability across various garden conditions further confirms its reputation as a top ornamental plant.
Know before you buy
This variety is a vigorous grower that spreads via stolons. While it fills in gaps relatively quickly, you can expect a mature spread of up to 36 inches per plant over time.
While it thrives in partial to full shade, it can handle some morning sun. However, avoid planting it in areas with intense afternoon heat, as the foliage may scorch.
Yes, Black Scallop is quite hardy and suitable for USDA Zones 4 through 9. It is an evergreen perennial, meaning it will retain its foliage color throughout the winter in most of these climates.
It is a low-maintenance groundcover that requires very little attention. Simply ensure it has consistent moisture during its first season, and it will generally take care of itself thereafter.
Yes, its dense, low-growing habit makes it an excellent choice for weed suppression. Once the plants have filled in the area, they create a thick mat that effectively shades out most competing weeds.
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