Black Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon Nigrescens)

Black Mondo Ornamental Grasses Description

Black Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’) is a distinctive ornamental plant prized for its almost black, grass-like foliage, making it a standout choice for UK gardens. Its unusual colour makes it perfect for adding contrast to borders, pathways, and container displays.

Unlike traditional green grasses, Black Mondo Grass creates a bold, modern look and is often used in contemporary garden designs. It works particularly well when paired with lighter foliage or flowering plants, helping to highlight surrounding colours and textures.

This evergreen plant grows in compact clumps, reaching around 20–30cm in height, making it ideal for:

• Ground cover
• Border edging
• Container planting
• Shaded garden areas

In late summer, it produces small pale lilac or white flowers, followed by dark berries that add subtle seasonal interest.

Black Mondo Grass is also low maintenance and easy to grow, thriving in partial shade and well-drained soils. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and requires minimal upkeep, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Pruning Advice

Black Mondo Grass is low maintenance and requires minimal pruning to keep it looking its best.

When to prune:

• Early spring, before new growth begins

How to prune:

• Trim back any dead or damaged leaves using clean, sharp secateurs
• Avoid cutting into the base (crown) of the plant

Maintenance tips:

• Divide overcrowded clumps every few years to encourage healthy growth
• Apply a light mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Avoid overwatering, as poorly drained soil can lead to root rot

Further Information

• Striking Black Foliage: Rare, glossy deep black leaves create strong contrast against lighter plants and flowers
• Evergreen: Maintains colour and structure all year round, even in winter
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, ideal for beginners
• Compact Growth: Typically reaches 20–30cm, perfect for borders, edging, and containers
• Versatile Use: Suitable for shaded areas, woodland gardens, and modern planting designs
• Wildlife Friendly: Flowers attract pollinators, while berries may support birds

Its unique colour and compact habit make it especially effective in contrast planting schemes, where it highlights surrounding foliage and blooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Black Mondo Grass really black?

Yes, its foliage appears deep purple-black, especially in shaded conditions, making it one of the darkest plants available.

Where does Black Mondo Grass grow best?

It thrives in partial to full shade with well-drained soil. Too much direct sun may cause the leaves to appear greener.

Is Black Mondo Grass evergreen?

Yes, it is fully evergreen and provides year-round interest in the garden.

Can Black Mondo Grass grow in pots?

Yes, it grows very well in containers and is ideal for patios and small spaces.

How fast does Black Mondo Grass grow?

It has a slow to moderate growth rate, gradually forming dense clumps over time.

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.