Glossy, near-black scalloped leaves form a dense, fast spreading mat that quickly fills bare ground and helps suppress weeds. Colour is richest in partial shade, bringing dramatic contrast to borders, pathways and underplantings. Short, deep blue flower spikes rise neatly above the foliage in spring for added seasonal interest. Evergreen in milder zones, this tough perennial adapts well to varied soils, handles fluctuating moisture and delivers bold impact with very little maintenance.