Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop'
Best low-maintenance ground cover for gardeners seeking deer-resistant, dark foliage.
This is the ultimate low-maintenance solution for choking out weeds with a dramatic, near-black carpet of foliage. It is a vigorous grower that provides year-round visual interest, but be warned: its aggressive spreading habit means you should keep it away from more delicate, slow-growing plants.
$17.00
at
White Flower Farm
Who it's for
- Homeowners needing low-maintenance weed suppression in shady spots
- Gardeners seeking high-contrast foliage for year-round visual interest
- Busy gardeners wanting hardy, deer-resistant groundcover options
Who should skip it
- People with sunny, exposed landscapes lacking consistent shade
- Gardeners with small beds who fear invasive plant spread
- Gardeners in humid climates with poorly draining soil
Performance breakdown
Weed Suppression
Dense growth habit effectively chokes out competing garden weeds.
Visual Impact
Dark, scalloped foliage provides a dramatic contrast in any landscape.
Deer Resistance
Reliably deters browsing animals, keeping your garden beds intact.
Growth Vigor
Spreads rapidly to establish full coverage in a single season.
Climate Versatility
Thrives across a wide range of USDA hardiness zones.
Maintenance Ease
Requires careful monitoring to prevent unwanted spreading into neighboring beds.
Key Specs
Lifespan
Perennial
Mature Height
6 inches
Mature Spread
18 inches
USDA Hardiness Zones
4 to 9
Foliage Color
Black
Flower Color
Blue
Recommended Spacing
12 inches
Soil Drainage Requirement
Well-drained
Growth Habit
Groundcover
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Know before you buy
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