A striking strappy-leaf groundcover forming spreading tufts of near-black arching foliage, with small mauve flowers and black berries. A dramatic contrast plant for edging, pots and pebble gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Ornamental grass
- Mature size: 20 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Black Mondo Grass
Botanically, Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' is an slow-growing ornamental grass in the Asparagaceae family. It reaches around 20 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and purple-toned foliage. Purple and white flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Black Mondo Grass
Black Mondo Grass suits subtropical, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Black Mondo Grass does best in clay and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Black Mondo Grass is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Black Mondo Grass after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Black Mondo Grass in the garden
Black Mondo Grass earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and a low lawn alternative. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Black Mondo Grass with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Black Mondo Grass
Plant Sale lists Black Mondo Grass as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.