Ophiopogon planiscapus Nigrescens - Black Mondo Grass
- Mature size: 20-30cm tall / wide
- Recommended spacing: 20-30cm apart
- Ideal growing conditions: Full Sun - Part shade, bright-filtered light.
- Growth rate: Moderate.
Uses
Perfect as a dramatic ground cover, feature edging along borders and pathways, underplanting in shaded gardens, rockeries, garden filler, mass plantings, containers for bold foliage contrast, cottage gardens, Japanese-style gardens, narrow/tight spaces, tropical gardens, retaining walls.
Noteworthy
Evergreen ornamental grass with striking black foliage; low maintenance and versatile across many landscape styles.
Tolerant
Handles a range of light conditions from sunny to filtered shade; adapts to coastal and urban environments and is drought tolerant once established.
Colour/Growth form
Dense, clumping habit with narrow, arching strap-like leaves in deep, almost black tones that create strong contrast against lighter foliage plants. The rich dark colour holds year-round and adds architectural structure to garden beds.
What is Black Mondo Grass?
Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’, commonly known as Black Mondo Grass, is a petite evergreen ornamental grass prized for its intense, black-purple-green foliage. Its compact, tufted form makes it ideal for adding striking contrast to mixed borders, pathways and container plantings.
How to care for Black Mondo Grass
Plant in well-drained soil in a position with full sun to part shade. Water regularly during establishment and reduce once established; allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Trim back old foliage in early spring to freshen the clump.
