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ophiopogon planiscapus niger

Ophiopogon planiscapus niger, commonly known as Black Mondo Grass or Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens, is one of the most striking ornamental grasses for New Zealand gardens. Renowned for its dramatic jet-black foliage, this versatile and low-maintenance groundcover provides bold contrast in borders, containers, and landscaping schemes year-round. Whether you're creating a contemporary outdoor space or adding unique texture to a cottage garden, Black Mondo Grass offers resilience, elegance, and easy-growing appeal suitable for both amateur gardeners and horticultural pros.

Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens

5 from 2 customers

Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens, commonly known as Black Mondo Grass, is a clump-forming plant with fine, near black foliage. The foliage is complemented with flower spikes in summer, which bear tiny, pale pink flowers as it grows to 20 cm tall and the same width. Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens nigrescens looks best when mass planted and is commonly used in rock gardens, included in borders, planted as a ground cover, or maintained in a container.

Ophiopogon planiscapus nigrescens (Black Mondo) plants with lush, black foliage.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Grasses
  • Height:
    20 cm
  • Spread:
    20 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Tolerances:
    Hardy
  • Garden uses:
    Banks, Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Cottage, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Ophiopogon japonicus nana (dwarf Mondo grass) growing between paving stones.
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Ophiopogon japonicus Nana

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nana' is a dwarf or mini Mondo Grass grown for its delicate, dark green foliage. Flower spikes are borne in summer and bear...

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Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass)

Ophiopogon 'Silver Mist' is a dwarf silver Mondo Grass, and features fine, grass-like foliage that is variegated dark green and white. It typically...

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Ophiopogon planiscapus (Mondo Grass) with lush green foliage growing as a ground cover.
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Ophiopogon planiscapus

Ophiopogon planiscapus, commonly known as Dwarf Lilyturf, is a Mondo grass grown for its fine, dark green foliage and short stature. The foliage is...

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Ophiopogon japonicus (Green Mondo Grass) growing as a groundcover in a woodland garden.
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Ophiopogon japonicus

Ophiopogon japonicus, commonly known as green Mondo Grass, is a striking ornamental grass. It grows as a clump and produces a dense tuft of...

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Ophiopogon 'Kyoto' (Dwarf Mondo grass) growing between paving stones.
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Ophiopogon Kyoto

Ophiopogon 'Kyoto' is a Dwarf Mondo Grass and grows as a small clump with fine, dark green foliage. Flower spikes appear in summer bearing tiny...

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Baumea articulata (Jointed Twig Rush) with upright, green foliage, growing in water.
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Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens

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Why Choose Ophiopogon planiscapus niger?

Ophiopogon planiscapus niger stands out thanks to its deep purple-black leaves and compact clumping growth habit. In addition to its intriguing colour, Black Mondo Grass produces delicate pale lavender flowers in summer, followed by shiny black berries. The main advantage is its adaptability: Ophiopogon planiscapus niger thrives in both sun and shade, tolerates drought once established, and resists pests and diseases. It's ideal as a border edging, mass groundcover, or standout accent in mixed planting. Gardeners love using Black Mondo Grass for modern landscaping, rock gardens, and alongside pale paving stones for a striking contrast.

Best Uses for Black Mondo Grass

Looking for different mondos or foliage textures? Explore Ophiopogon Kyoto for vivid green grass-like leaves, or Ophiopogon japonicus Nana for a petite, compact form that suits smaller containers and terrace gardens.

Planting and Care Tips

Black Mondo Grass is undemanding, yet rewards a little attention during establishment. For best results: - Choose moist, well-drained soils. Suitable for both clay and sand if not waterlogged. - Space plants 15-20cm apart for dense coverage. - Fertilise in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser. - Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. - Trim spent flower stalks for tidy growth.

If you’re interested in a silvery look, consider Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass), which combines easy care with subtle elegance. For larger, structural grasses, Lomandra Verday or Carex chathamica (Chatham Sedge) offer complementary architectural appeal.

Explore More Ophiopogon Varieties

Ophiopogon planiscapus niger is just one member of the fascinating Ophiopogon family. If you're seeking classic deep green monochrome, Ophiopogon japonicus is a reliable evergreen groundcover. For a wider leaf and year-round texture, try Ophiopogon planiscapus. Combining these with native grasses like Lomandra Green Allure or accent plants such as Libertia edgariae (Edgar’s Iris) and Aciphylla aurea can create a diverse and resilient garden tapestry.

Ophiopogon planiscapus niger continues to be a gardener favourite thanks to its longevity, standout colour, and versatile use in garden design. Add Black Mondo Grass to your planting plan for a touch of bold, effortless beauty in any New Zealand landscape.


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