Glossy, Near-Black Foliage and Blue Spring Spikes

Black Scallop Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop') is the darkest, glossiest bugleweed, forming a dense mat of scalloped, near-black purple leaves that shine in the light, topped with spikes of deep blue flowers in spring. The dramatic dark foliage is stunning against gold or chartreuse companions and brightens shaded ground. Deer-resistant and vigorous, it's a striking, weed-smothering groundcover for sun or shade in Eden Prairie, Plymouth, and Eagan.

Landscape Uses

Use Black Scallop as a dramatic dark groundcover under shrubs, along edges, and on shaded slopes, or as contrast against gold and green foliage. It forms a dense mat, so site it where it can spread or edge it to contain.

Best Time to Plant

Plant in spring or early fall, when cooler weather and steady moisture help it establish and knit together.

How to Plant

Set plants level with the soil surface, spacing them 8–12 inches apart for quick coverage. Water in well and mulch lightly between plants until they fill in.

Watering

First Year: Water 1–2 times per week to establish and encourage spread.
After Year One: Water during dry spells; it's fairly drought tolerant once established.
Drip Irrigation: A drip line or soaker hose keeps the mat evenly moist as it fills in.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the darkest color?
The near-black tone is richest in full sun, though it still grows and colors well in part shade.

Does it spread?
Yes, it spreads to form a groundcover; edge it to keep it out of lawns.

Is it hardy in Minnesota?
Yes, it's a Zone 3 groundcover, fully hardy statewide.

Is it deer resistant?
Yes, deer generally avoid bugleweed.

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Pair Black Scallop with chartreuse hostas, ferns, and our other bugleweeds for a high-contrast, weed-suppressing planting.