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black mondo grass for sale nz

Black mondo grass is a striking, low-maintenance plant that offers dramatic contrast in any New Zealand garden. If you’re searching for black mondo grass for sale NZ, you’ve found the perfect spot to add this deep-purple beauty to your landscape. Its rich, almost-black foliage provides year-round interest whether planted in borders, under trees, or between stepping stones. As a hardy perennial that thrives in a variety of conditions, black mondo grass makes an ideal choice for both seasoned gardeners and beginners alike.

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.
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...

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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Lomandra 'Echidna' grass growing as a mass planting beside a path.
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2m wide Black Polythene

This polythene is 80 microns thick, very durable, and suits a host of different uses. Please enquire about larger sizes and heavier grades.

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An elegant Miscanthus sinensis grass with cream-coloured flower plumes and lush green foliage.
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Ophiopogon planiscapus

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Search black mondo grass

Why Plant Black Mondo Grass?

Black mondo grass is highly prized for its unique, inky-coloured leaves that create a bold statement against green or silvery foliage. Gardeners across New Zealand use black mondo grass to edge pathways, fill containers, and as groundcover in shaded areas. Its compact form (typically around 20cm high) means it’s well-suited for mass planting or tucking into small spaces. In summer, black mondo grass surprises with delicate, pale-purple flowers that mature into eye-catching black berries, extending its appeal through multiple seasons.

Because of its drought tolerance and resilience, black mondo grass is an excellent low-maintenance choice. It’s not only attractive but also suppresses weeds and helps to stabilise soil. Many Kiwi gardeners love using black mondo grass for formal designs, Japanese-style gardens, and native landscapes.

Varieties of Black Mondo Grass

If you’re searching for black mondo grass for sale NZ, you’ll want to consider the best cultivar for your garden. One of the most popular and widely recommended is Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens, known for its deep purple-black blades and clumping growth habit.
You may also like to explore other members of the Ophiopogon family for different uses and aesthetics. Ophiopogon Black Dragon offers especially dramatic colouring, while Ophiopogon japonicus Nana brings a dwarf form that’s perfect for rockeries or between paving stones. For those interested in soft, compact edging, Ophiopogon Kyoto is another popular choice. Classic Ophiopogon japonicus remains a garden staple for lush green groundcover.

How to Grow Black Mondo Grass in NZ

Growing black mondo grass in New Zealand is straightforward. Choose a site with well-drained soil, and plant in part shade for the richest foliage colour. This versatile grass tolerates a wide range of soils and will even thrive in full sun if kept evenly moist. Once established, black mondo grass requires minimal attention—just the occasional tidy up or division every few years. It’s hardy from coastal to alpine regions, making it a reliable pick from Northland to Southland.

For a dramatic effect, consider mass planting black mondo grass in your garden beds, or use it for striking, dark borders around paths and patios. Container gardeners also love using black mondo grass for year-round impact on decks and balconies.

Where to Buy Black Mondo Grass in NZ

If you’re keen to buy black mondo grass for sale NZ, check out our range of high-quality, nursery-grown plants ready for your home garden. Browse our selection of Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens, Ophiopogon Black Dragon, Ophiopogon japonicus Nana, Ophiopogon Kyoto, and Ophiopogon japonicus to find the ideal variety for your next project. With secure online ordering and nationwide delivery, it’s easy to add bold, beautiful colour to your landscape today.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Avocado 'Reed' and Ficus benjamina are popular for a reason, but it’s plants like Apple 'Liberty', Muehlenbeckia complexa (Pohuehue), and Leucanthemum 'Banana Cream' that create a truly unique garden.
–The Plant Company

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