Ajuga 'Black Scallop'

Ajuga 'Black Scallop' is a bugle with a wonderfully polished sense of drama, forming a low, evergreen carpet of very glossy, dark, near-black leaves. Each scalloped leaf catches the light with a subtle sheen, giving Ajuga 'Black Scallop' a rich, almost lacquered appearance that makes surrounding greens look fresher and pale flowers brighter. In spring, short spikes of deep blue flowers rise above the foliage, a cool contrast that suits the plant beautifully. Compact, spreading and quietly theatrical, Ajuga 'Black Scallop' is ideal for gardeners who like ground cover with a little more attitude than usual.

Plant Ajuga 'Black Scallop' in moist but well-drained soil, in sun or partial shade, where it can weave neatly between perennials, edge paths or soften bare patches beneath shrubs. Its dark foliage looks especially striking with lime-green heucheras, silver-leaved plants, pale spring bulbs and white or blue flowers, creating a border with depth and polish. It is also very useful in containers, where its creeping habit can spill gently around taller companions. Evergreen, glossy and pleasingly easy to place, Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop' is a smart little performer with year-round style and excellent garden manners.