Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’

Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ is a hardy, low-growing perennial known for its dramatic bronze-purple scalloped foliage and springtime flower spikes of deep blue. Perfect as a ground cover in shaded borders, around paving, or in containers, it thrives with little maintenance while providing colour and texture across the seasons.

Position: light-shade

Rate of Growth: medium

Soil: moderate-fertile

Hardiness: h5

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Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ – Description

This evergreen ground cover is prized for its striking, glossy bronze foliage and dense, mat-forming habit. In spring, short spikes of blue flowers rise above the foliage, adding seasonal colour and attracting pollinators. Once established, it spreads steadily without becoming invasive.

Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ – Characteristics

Moderate growth rate with evergreen foliage. Typically reaches around 30cm in spread and forms a dense carpet. Fully hardy (H5) in most Irish conditions.

Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ – Uses

Excellent for ground cover in shaded or partially shaded borders. Ideal for containers, underplanting shrubs, edging paths, or as part of a cottage garden scheme. Its flowers are popular with bees.

Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ – Planting Instructions

Plant in light shade with moist but well-drained soil. Space plants to allow them to spread naturally into a carpet. Tidy foliage and trim back spent flowers in late spring to encourage fresh growth.

Facts About Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’

This plant is particularly well-suited to Ireland’s mild, damp climate. In wetter regions, ensure soil is well-draining to prevent root issues, while foliage colour is deepest in partial shade.

Plant at a Glance

facing:east
facing:west
light:light-shade
soiltype:moderate-fertile
soilmoisture:normal
growth rate:medium
foliage:evergreen
hardiness:h5
flowering:april
flowering:may
flowercolour:blue
leafcolour:bronze
size:30cm
wildlife:attractive-to-bees
gardenstyle:cottage-garden
type:herbaceous
use:low-maintenance
use:ground-cover
use:containers