Ajuga reptans ‘Black Scallop’ (Carpet Bugle)

Ajuga reptans ‘Black Scallop’ (Carpet Bugle) is a creeping perennial prized for its short spikes of fragrant, deep blue flowers and very glossy, near-black, scalloped leaves. Blooming in late spring to early summer, the flowers rise above the contrasting, spreading rosettes formed by the leaves, putting on an eye-catching display.

Ajuga reptans is valued as a wonderful spreader making a colorful groundcover, which will thrive in shady areas where grass has difficulty growing. Evergreen in most regions, it is perfect for planting between stepping stones or in wall crevices.

• Gardeners treasure the showy foliage of Ajuga reptans and its carpet habit more than its flowers. Ground-hugging, this perennial plant grows up to 3-6 in. tall (7-15 cm) and 36 in. wide (15-90 cm), and remains attractive most of the year.
• A part shade to full shade lover, it thrives in average, medium, well-drained soils and tolerates almost any soils provided they are moist and humusy. Will tolerate full sun if constant moisture is provided.
• Provide good air circulation to avoid crown root problems. This plant is rabbit and deer resistant!
• A remarkably low-maintenance plant, this excellent performer is highly versatile and can be used in many situations: groundcovers, on banks or slopes, under trees or shrubs. It is also great in containers!
• Propagate by division, separating rooted stems.
• Generally pest free. Watch for powdery mildews
• May be mowed after flowering in order to get rid of the spent flower spikes and clean up the planting.
• Ajuga reptans species is native to Europe. It is potentially invasive and may form dense evergreen mats that crowd out native vegetation.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.