Variety Profile
A striking, ornamental form of ajuga. Forms a dense mat of foliage in sumptuous shades of purple/brown through to black.
Individual leaves are glossy with ruffled margins adding
further textural interest whilst spring and summer bring the appearance of short, deep blue flower spikes. Discovered by Mike Tristram of the UK as a mutation on tissue cultured plants.
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Cultural Care
Although best sited in semi-shade for most reliable performance, A. 'Black Scallop' is a hardy perennial which can grow well in full sun positions as long as the soil is well draining but moist and sheltered from strong afternoon sun.
Other requirements are minimal with no pruning required and a single application of slow release fertiliser during spring being recommended for optimum performance.
A. 'Black Scallop' performs better in the heat than most other varieties and will withstand frosts and temperatures to -35ºc. Another benefit of this form is its mildew resistance - a condition known to afflict many of the other varieties.
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Plant Uses
Makes a showy ground cover for moist, shady areas of the garden and is ideal to create an accenting foil around the base of landscape focal points such as garden seats, statues or container specimens. In ideal growing situations it will form a dense mat difficult for weeds to penetrate effectively creating a low maintenance zone. Be aware, however, that A. 'Black Scallop' will not tolerate heavy foot traffic and therefore should be relegated to garden beds and not pathways.
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