Black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘nigrescens’)
Ophiopogon is a genus of about 50 species of evergreen, rhizomatous or tufted perennials. They are much appreciated by their dense tufts of grass-like leaves. This habit makes them good choices for ground cover, border edging or rock gardens.
Ophiopogon planiscapus has dark green leaves while the cultivar Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘nigrescens’ (Black mondo grass) has dark black leaves which makes them perfect plants for contrasts in the garden.
In summer they produce pink, white, lilac flowers on leafless stems follower by spherical blue or black fruits.
In this article
Plant profile
Common name: Black mondo grassScientific name: Ophiopogon planiscapus 'nigrescens'
Plant type: Grasses
Habit: Clump-forming
Height: 10cm - 50cm
Spread: 10cm - 50cm
Foliage: Evergreen
Foliage color: Black
Flower color: Pink, Purple, White
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial shade
Soil: Clay, Loam, Sand
Moisture: Moist but well drained
Garden type: Architectural, City & Courtyard Gardens, Coastal, Informal Garden, Japanese Garden, Patio & Container Garden, Rock & Gravel Garden
Planting type: Containers & Pots, Flower borders and bedding, Ground Cover, Low Maintenance, Wall-side Borders
How to plant
Mondo grass should be planted outside in moist but well drained soil. They prefer a slightly acid soil, humus-rich and fertile. Plant in full sun or partial shade positions.
Propagation
The easiest way to propagate mondo grasses is by division. We wrote a complete guide on how to divide black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘nigrescens’).
You can also reproduce black mondo grass by seed in spring.
Pests
Slugs and snails may damage young leaves.
