Botanical Name: Ajuga reptans ‘Black Scallop’

Common Name: Bugleweed

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 3–9)

Size: 4–6" Tall × 12–18" Spread

Growth Habit: Low-Growing, Spreading Ground Cover

Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade (Best Color in Partial Shade)

Soil: Prefers Moist, Well-Drained Soil; Adapts to Average Garden Soils

Water Needs: Moderate; Consistent Moisture for Best Establishment

Bloom Season: Mid to Late Spring

Fertilizer: Minimal; Avoid Excess Fertility

Features: Near-Black Glossy Foliage, Scalloped Leaves, Blue Flower Spikes, Deer Resistant, Evergreen in Mild Climates

Uses: Ideal for Ground Cover, Edging, Shade Gardens, Under Trees & Shrubs, and Containers

Patent: ✔ Patented (Expired in 2025)

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

See our complete Ajuga Plant Guide for full care details.

More About Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’

Black Scallop is of the darkest variety of Ajuga that we carry. It is primarily grown for its foliage; the leaves are a deep, glossy purple-black with pronounced scalloped edges, giving the plant texture as well as drama. When it fills in, it creates a low, continuous mat that reads almost like fabric laid across the soil—smooth, intentional, and remarkably clean. Even when nothing else is happening in the garden, ‘Black Scallop’ holds attention simply through contrast.

In Spring, short spikes of deep blue flowers emerge above the foliage, creating a sharp contrast against the dark leaves. The bloom period isn’t long, but it’s impactful, especially when planted in larger drifts. Bees and early pollinators make good use of the flowers, though once blooming finishes, the foliage quickly resumes its role as the main event. This is very much a foliage-first plant, and that’s exactly why it works so well as a backbone ground cover rather than a seasonal accent.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

‘Black Scallop’ has been around for over 20 years. We haven’t trialed it recently, as it proved itself long. It prefers partial shade to produce the richest, darkest foliage it can. t’s also tolerant of root competition, which makes it a strong option beneath trees and shrubs where other ground covers struggle to establish. From a design standpoint, ‘Black Scallop’ is incredibly versatile. It works beautifully as a living mulch, along pathways, at the front of shaded borders, or spilling gently over the edges of walls and containers. The dark foliage makes nearby plants—especially silvers, chartreuse tones, and bright greens—stand out more sharply.

You can trust provides Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ to provide year-round visual weight, suppresses weeds, and brings a sense of intention to the landscape. Deer consistently avoid it, and once it’s established, maintenance is minimal beyond the occasional trimming of wandering runners. It’s not flashy, it doesn’t need attention, and it quietly does exactly what it’s supposed to do—which, in my experience, is what separates a good plant from a great one.

Black Scallop vs. Other Ajuga Varieties

Compared to lighter or more traditional ajuga varieties, ‘Black Scallop’ stands out for its deep, near-black foliage and glossy finish that create strong contrast in the landscape. While ‘Chocolate Chip’ excels as a low, fast-spreading option for tight spaces and ‘Burgundy Glow’ adds brightness through variegation, Black Scallop delivers a bold, dramatic presence that anchors shaded plantings.

‘Black Scallop’ also offers a more refined look than vigorous spreaders like ‘Caitlin’s Giant’, making it easier to integrate into designed beds. For gardeners seeking dependable groundcover with standout color and texture, Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ is an exceptional choice. Its rich foliage, tidy growth habit, and reliable performance make it one of the most effective ways to add depth and contrast to shade and partial-shade gardens.