'Black Scallop' bugleweed (Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop') ah-JEW-gah REP-tanz Genus:  Ajuga Black foliage and spiky blue flowers (which appear in early summer) make a dramatic contrast. 'Black Scallop' thrives in full sun, which intensifies the black color. In full sun, the plant produces numerous runners, which should be thinned to prevent crown rot. In large plantings, you can run a rotary mower with a bagger attachment over the patch to control crowding and keep the foliage fresh. In mixed container plantings, the spilling habit of the plant makes it a standout choice. -Ron Smith, Regional Picks: Upper Plains, Fine Gardening issue #120 Noteworthy Characteristics:  Very dark, scalloped foliage and spikes of blue flowers. Invasive tendencies. Care:  Provide full sun to light shade and most any soil. Thin the runners to prevent crown rot. Propagation:  Divide rooted stems. Problems:  This plant is invasive.

Overview

Height 6 in. to 12 in. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Runs Growth Pace Fast Grower, Invasive/Aggressive Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Adaptable Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Early Summer Flower Color Blue Foliage Color Black Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Ground Covers Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant Type Perennials