Black Mondo Ornamental Grasses (Ophiopogon Planiscapus Nigrescens)

Black Mondo Ornamental Grasses Description

Black Mondo Grass is a striking, low growing perennial that adds a touch of elegance and drama to any garden. Known for its glossy, almost black foliage, it forms dense clumps that provide unique contrast in both shaded and sunny spots. Reaching a height of around 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches), it makes an excellent ground cover or edging plant, creating a sophisticated carpet of dark foliage. In late summer, delicate, pale lilac or white flowers appear, followed by small, dark purple berries, which add a subtle seasonal interest to the plant. Despite its dramatic appearance, Black Mondo Grass is easy to grow and maintain, making it a favourite among gardeners looking for something different.

The plant is evergreen, retaining its glossy black leaves throughout the year, which makes it an ideal choice for year round interest in borders, containers, or shaded garden areas. It works well when paired with other plants, providing contrast to brighter foliage or flowering plants.

Pruning Advice

When to Prune: Black Mondo Grass requires very little pruning, but any dead or damaged foliage can be trimmed back in early spring before new growth begins.

How to Prune:

Use sharp secateurs or garden shears to carefully remove any spent or damaged leaves. Be careful not to damage the base or crown of the plant.

If the clumps become too large or overcrowded, divide the plant in early spring to rejuvenate it and maintain its compact growth habit.

Additional Tips:

Black Mondo Grass can be slow growing, so patience is required as it gradually spreads and forms clumps.

Applying a light mulch around the base in early spring can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide some insulation against winter cold.

While it tolerates a range of conditions, it is important not to overwater, as soggy soil can cause root rot.

Further Information

Striking Foliage: The most notable feature of Black Mondo Grass is its glossy, jet black leaves, which provide year round visual interest and contrast, especially against lighter foliage or blooms.

Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it perfect for gardeners seeking a low maintenance, yet visually stunning addition to their garden.

Evergreen: Its evergreen nature ensures a continuous presence of dark foliage, even through the winter months.

Compact Size: Growing to a height of just 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches), it is ideal for smaller spaces, containers, or as ground cover in borders.

Wildlife Friendly: The delicate flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the berries provide food for birds during autumn.

Versatility: It thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas but can also tolerate some sun, though its foliage may lose some of its rich colour in full sunlight. It is ideal for woodland gardens, borders, or as a contrast in mixed planting schemes.

Resilient: Black Mondo Grass is drought tolerant once established and can cope with a range of soil conditions, provided they are well drained.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.