1-gallon pot of Ajuga Reptans Black Scallop, grown in zones 3-9. Deep purple leaves with scalloped edges create a dense, compact groundcover. #gardening #landscaping #groundcover
Carpet Bugle, Bugleweed. Large, Blackish-Purple In Color
The plant you are describing is most likely a cultivar of Carpet Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans). It is a perennial groundcover that is known for its dense mat of foliage and ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it has become naturalized in many parts of North America.
Carpet Bugleweed grows to be 3-6 inches tall and spreads to form a dense mat that can be up to 12 inches wide. It has opposite, heart-shaped leaves that are a deep green color. The leaves of some cultivars, such as 'Atropurpurea', can be a deep blackish-purple color. Carpet Bugleweed produces small, blue or purple flowers in the spring.
Carpet Bugleweed is a very low-maintenance plant. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, but it can tolerate a variety of conditions, including drought, heat, and cold. Carpet Bugleweed is also deer-resistant and relatively resistant to pests and diseases.
To grow Carpet Bugleweed, simply plant the seeds or seedlings in the spring or fall. Space the plants 6-12 inches apart. Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth. Carpet Bugleweed is overwinter hardy in zones 3-9.
Carpet Bugleweed is a great choice for groundcover in borders, beds, and rock gardens. It can also be used to control erosion and to suppress weeds. Carpet Bugleweed is also a popular choice for lawns, as it can tolerate foot traffic.
Here are some additional tips for growing Carpet Bugleweed:
- Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide the plants every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.
- Cut back the plants to the ground in the fall after the first frost.
Carpet Bugleweed is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is a great addition to any garden.
Note: The plant is shipped in its pot, firmly secured with several layers of clear tape, thereby avoiding any shuffling and moving during transit. The plant reaches you with minimal damage- very safe and secure. We have been shipping plants like this for several years (plant are sometimes shipped in smaller pots for safety and ease of shipping). Most plants go dormant in fall and winter and will lose most of their leaves - looking dead and dry - very normal. They will flush out in spring.
We cannot send ship some plants and some sizes to California due to restrictions placed by department of agriculture.
