Ajuga 'Reptans Black Scallop'

• Lovely blue flowers through spring
• Intense dark green glossy leaf coverage
• RHS-backed pollinating variety

You may be more familiar with this rather unusual but very effective plant under the name of bugle or wild bugle. Ajuga Reptans Black Scallop is a hardy, all-weather evergreen that can spread quickly and covers a carpet of texture, particularly around trees and under shrubs. In contrast to brighter and free-flowering spring plants, Ajuga Reptans Black Scallop carries a much deeper shade with a pretty subtle flower once the winter weather disappears and warm sunshine breaks through.

This perennial boasts colours of misty green, almost black in places, hence the name it has been given. The wide-spreading leaves, which can reach around 35inches (1m) in width and just over 10inches (25cm) in height, make a rich covering with a look that is both glossy and mysterious in different conditions.

Ajuga Reptans Black Scallop changes in springtime, producing deep blue petals atop short spiked flowers. This is a fantastic sight in April, May and early June and the RHS has recognised this species for being particularly attractive for pollinator wildlife.