Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' (Black Mondo Grass) – Planting & Care Guide

About Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens', commonly known as Black Mondo Grass, is a striking evergreen perennial grown for its dramatic, arching deep purple-black foliage. Despite its common name, it is not a true grass but a clump-forming perennial that adds exceptional contrast and texture to borders, rockeries and containers.

During summer, delicate spikes of pale lilac flowers emerge above the foliage, followed by glossy black berries in autumn. Growing to approximately 20–25cm tall with a spread of 25–30cm, Black Mondo Grass is ideal for edging paths, underplanting shrubs or creating bold contrasts with silver, gold or green-leaved plants.

Planting Guide

• Plant in partial shade or full shade.
• Will tolerate full sun if the soil remains consistently moist.
• Prefers fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil.
• Suitable for loam, sandy and clay soils with good drainage.
• Improve poor soils with compost or well-rotted organic matter before planting.
• Dig a planting hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
• Position the crown level with the surrounding soil.
• Backfill with soil, firm gently and water thoroughly.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Space plants approximately 25–30cm apart.

Care & Maintenance

Black Mondo Grass is a low-maintenance perennial once established.

• Water regularly during the first growing season.
• Once established, water during prolonged dry spells.
• Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser.
• Apply fresh mulch each spring to help retain moisture.
• Remove weeds while plants establish.
• Container-grown plants will require more frequent watering during warm weather.
• Avoid prolonged waterlogging.

Pruning

Very little pruning is required.

• Remove dead or damaged leaves in late winter or early spring.
• Trim away any untidy foliage before new growth begins.
• Divide mature clumps every 3–5 years in spring if required.
• Remove old flower stems once flowering has finished if desired.
• No regular pruning is necessary.

Growing Conditions

• Botanical Name: Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'
• Common Name: Black Mondo Grass
• Plant Type: Evergreen perennial
• Mature Height: 20–25cm
• Spread: 25–30cm
• Flower Colour: Pale lilac
• Flowering Period: July to August
• Fruit: Glossy black berries
• Foliage: Deep purple-black evergreen leaves
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout Ireland and the UK

Ideal Uses in the Garden

Black Mondo Grass is perfect for adding bold foliage contrast and year-round interest.

• Front of borders
• Path edging
• Rockeries
• Woodland gardens
• Contemporary gardens
• Japanese-style gardens
• Patio containers
• Courtyard gardens
• Underplanting shrubs
• Ground cover

It combines beautifully with Heuchera, Hostas, Ferns, Hakonechloa, Carex, Fatsia, Acers, silver-foliaged plants and spring-flowering bulbs.

Seasonal Interest

• Dramatic black foliage provides year-round colour and contrast.
• Delicate lilac flowers appear in summer.
• Glossy black berries follow the flowers in autumn.
• Evergreen foliage remains attractive throughout winter.
• Creates a striking architectural effect in both modern and traditional gardens.

Common Problems

Black Mondo Grass is generally healthy and easy to grow.

• Root rot can occur in poorly drained or waterlogged soils.
• Slugs and snails may occasionally damage young shoots.
• Leaf scorch may occur if grown in hot, dry conditions without sufficient moisture.
• Clumps may become congested over time and benefit from division.
• Planting in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade will keep plants healthy and looking their best.

With its dramatic black foliage, delicate summer flowers and compact evergreen habit, Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' is one of the most distinctive foliage plants for Irish gardens. Ideal for borders, containers, woodland gardens and contemporary landscapes, it provides year-round colour and texture while requiring very little maintenance

• Size
  V2 25cm

Kindly be aware when mix/ mixed/ assorted/ varieties is mention you will receive ONLY ONE plant/ item, which will be selected for delivery, photos may show different varieties available - which may also vary 

 
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