Ajuga ‘Black Scallop’ is a striking groundcover perennial known for its glossy, near black scalloped foliage and deep blue flower spikes. It forms a dense mat that suppresses weeds and adds dramatic color contrast to borders, pathways, and containers.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 in x 1 - 2 ft
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring (April to June)
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade; foliage color deepest in full sun
Soil Preference: Prefers moist, well drained soils; tolerates a range of soil types
Watering Needs: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture, especially in sunnier spots
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant due to its bitter-tasting foliage
NATIVE STATUS
Originates from Europe and western Asia, though it has naturalized in some parts of North America. Despite this, it is non invasive in most managed garden settings and is often used in ecological landscapes for its soil stabilizing and pollinator friendly traits.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Provides nectar for spring butterflies such as Azure, Eastern Tailed-Blue, and Painted Lady. Its early blooming period is crucial in bridging the floral gap between spring bulbs and summer perennials.
Bees
- An early season favorite of honeybees, bumblebees, and small solitary bees. Its dense clusters of blue blooms offer easy landing pads and abundant nectar at a time when few other sources are available.
Beneficial Insects
- Attracts hoverflies and other pollinating flies that support both pollination and natural pest control efforts. Though not a host plant, it supports many insects in early life cycles.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- Space plants 12 - 18 inches apart to allow for gradual spreading and full coverage over time. Closer spacing leads to faster groundcover establishment in small areas.
Landscape Placement
- Perfect for border edges, underplanting shrubs, shade gardens, slopes for erosion control, between stepping stones, and container spillers. Ideal for creating high contrast plantings when paired with silver or chartreuse foliage.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Heuchera (Caramel) - Warm toned foliage that contrasts beautifully with dark ajuga leaves
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Pulmonaria (Trevi Fountain) - Spotted foliage and blue flowers bloom in similar seasons
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Hosta (June) - Soft variegation provides brightness and pairs well in partial shade
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Carex oshimensis (Evergold) - Graceful ornamental grass with yellow-green blades
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Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Native woodland groundcover with frothy spring blooms
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Brunnera macrophylla (Jack Frost) - Silver foliage and early flowers for woodland-style gardens
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Ferns (Dryopteris, Athyrium) - Add textural softness and thrive in similar shaded moist soils