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black dragon mondo grass

Black dragon mondo grass is a stunning, low-maintenance ornamental grass that's fast becoming a favourite in New Zealand gardens for its bold, almost black foliage and year-round appeal. Perfect for borders, ground covers, or container planting, black dragon mondo grass adds rich colour contrast and intriguing texture to any landscape design. With its arching, strap-like leaves and delicate summer blooms, this versatile plant can elevate everything from Japanese-inspired gardens to modern urban spaces. Keep reading to discover how to grow, care for, and creatively use black dragon mondo grass in your outdoor oasis.

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

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 complemented with flower spikes in summer, which bear tiny, lilac flowers as it grows to 20 cm tall and 30 cm wide. Ophiopogon planiscapus is best showcased in mass plantings and is commonly added to rock gardens, used in borders, grown as a ground cover, planted around outdoor living areas, or simply maintained in a container.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 20 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Ophiopogon planiscapus nigrescens (Black Mondo) plants with lush, black foliage.

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.

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 Silver Mist grass in a garden.
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From$6.95
Ophiopogon japonicus (Green Mondo Grass) growing as a groundcover in a woodland garden.
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...

From$6.95
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Ophiopogon planiscapus

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Cymbopogon, Lomandra, and Miscanthus, or related Categories - Weedmat, Deciduous Climbers, and Flaxes.

Search black dragon mondo grass

What is Black Dragon Mondo Grass?

Black dragon mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Black Dragon’) is a compact, evergreen perennial renowned for its dramatic, deep purple-black leaves. Native to East Asia, this variety thrives in a wide range of conditions across New Zealand, from cool coastal areas to warmer urban gardens. It forms neat clumps, growing to about 20-30 cm high, making it ideal for edging garden beds or interplanting among pavers and stepping stones.

If you're looking for related selections, you might also enjoy Ophiopogon Black Dragon, Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens, or Ophiopogon planiscapus, each with unique features to suit different garden styles.

Growing Conditions for Black Dragon Mondo Grass

One of the best things about black dragon mondo grass is its adaptability. It thrives in both full sun and partial shade and tolerates a variety of soil types as long as they are well-drained. While it prefers moderately moist soil, once established, this grass can cope with dry spells, making it a reliable solution for low-maintenance gardens.

Creative Uses for Black Dragon Mondo Grass

Black dragon mondo grass is an outstanding design element thanks to its unique colour and form. Use it to create striking garden borders, pathways, or mass plantings for a dramatic effect. It's also excellent for container gardens, where its compact growth habit and bold foliage serve as a beautiful backdrop for seasonal blooms or contrasting foliage.

For smaller plantings or fairy garden features, consider alternatives like Ophiopogon japonicus Nana, which offers the same lush look in a petite package.

Companion Planting and Landscape Pairings

Pair black dragon mondo grass with silver, white, or green-leaved plants for maximum contrast—popular companions include hostas, ferns, and colourful heucheras. For a cohesive style, explore the architectural look of Ophiopogon Kyoto or the glossy foliage of Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens.

Whether you want a striking groundcover or an accent for pots and borders, black dragon mondo grass is a versatile solution that brings year-round interest to New Zealand gardens. Visit our range of mondo grass varieties to find the perfect match for your next landscaping project.


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