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Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'
Black Mondo Grass is one of my favorite accent perennials — compact, dramatic, and easy to grow. Its black foliage adds bold contrast to green or silver plants and looks incredible in mass plantings or containers. If you want a plant that’s as tough as it is beautiful, this is it.
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Dramatic, Evergreen Color That Adds Instant Contrast
Bold Foliage for Modern Landscapes
Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’, commonly known as Black Mondo Grass, delivers unmatched visual impact with its deep purple-black, grass-like foliage. Unlike typical green grasses, its jet-black leaves provide a stunning contrast against lighter perennials and stone pathways. Tiny, pinkish-white summer flowers appear amid the leaves, followed by shiny, black berries that extend the seasonal interest.
Compact, Hardy, and Versatile
Growing only 6–10 inches tall, Black Mondo Grass forms slow-spreading clumps that create elegant edging and a dense ground cover. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, adapting to a range of soil types as long as drainage is good. It’s a favorite among landscape designers for modern borders, Japanese gardens, and rock gardens alike.
Drought-Tolerant and Deer-Resistant
Once established, this tough evergreen requires little maintenance. It’s drought-tolerant, deer- and rabbit-resistant, and unaffected by most pests or diseases. Its evergreen foliage ensures year-round interest, even when other perennials go dormant.
Perfect for Containers and Garden Contrast
Black Mondo Grass works beautifully in containers or mixed borders, where its color and texture elevate other plants. Try pairing it with Silver Mound Artemisia, Heuchera ‘Lime Marmalade,’ or white flowering perennials for dramatic contrast and balance.
| Botanical Name | Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’ |
|---|---|
| Hardiness Zone: | 6-10 |
| Mature Height: | 6 to 10 Inches Tall |
| Mature Width: | 8 to 12 Inches |
| Classification: | Perennial |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Habit: | Upright, clump forming |
| Bloom Time / Color | Summer / Pinkish-White |
| Soil Condition: | Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic |
| Water Require: | Low to Moderate once established |
| Resistance | Deer- and rabbit-resistant |
| Uses: | Extremely attractive when used as a focal point in the mixed border, mass planting |
How to Care for Black Mondo Grass
Before you buy Black Mondo Grass, make sure to read about the care instructions to keep these plant healthy and thriving.
How should I plant Black Mondo Grass?
Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but not deeper. Position the crown level with the soil surface, backfill, and water thoroughly to settle the roots. For edging or mass planting, space 8–10 inches apart. This allows clumps to spread naturally into a seamless carpet over time. Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, avoiding direct contact with the crown.
How often should I water Black Mondo Grass after planting?
Water deeply once or twice a week during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. Once established, Black Mondo Grass is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells. Ensure soil remains moist but never soggy.
When should I fertilize Black Mondo Grass?
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost in early spring to encourage lush new growth. Avoid heavy fertilization, as it can reduce the deep black pigmentation of the foliage. Organic compost is ideal for maintaining vibrant color and healthy soil.
When and how should I prune Black Mondo Grass?
Cut back any damaged or faded leaves in late winter before new growth emerges. This keeps the clumps neat and allows fresh blades to shine. Mature clumps can be divided every few years in spring to maintain vigor and create new plantings.
