Ajuga Reptans 'Black Scallop'

Biglad

I like the look of this and it would appear to be suitable for conditions in the back border of my garden. However, whilst researching, the weed within 'bugleweed' and words like invasive, thug and robust suggest that it has potential to be overly successful?

Does anybody have any experience of this shady, little character?

JennyJ

I don't have that particular one (tempted though, it looks very nice) but I have the common Ajuga reptans and the variety "Burgundy Glow", and they aren't invasive here. The common one spreads more than the variety but only slowly and is easily pulled out if it gets too far. They might be more vigorous in damper, richer soil.

Fairygirl

They do spread rapidly here - I only have the common one now - but they're easy enough to haul out if they get a bit too keen. 

Pete.8

Yes - I planted Black Scallop by my w/l pond about 5 yrs ago.
It has to compete with Brooklime that has escaped from the pond and lots of self-sown stipa tenuissima and oregano and they have kept it in check.
It's spread only about 1ft over the years and I've yet to see it flower as I guess the conditions are not ideal for it but at least the foliage makes a good contrast.
I imagine that given better conditions it would cover a much wider area.

Biglad

Thanks very much folks. Good to know that it is relatively easy to remove if need be.

My conditions may be similar to yours @Pete.8 I'm hoping that it will spread gently in an area that can be pretty wet.

I'm going to give it a go anyway.