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dwarf black mondo grass

Dwarf black mondo grass is an eye-catching, low-growing perennial prized for its dramatic colour and texture in New Zealand gardens. With its elegant, deep purple-black foliage and tidy, tufted habit, this plant is perfect for creating bold contrast, edging pathways, or filling between pavers. Its compact size makes it ideal for urban gardens, containers, and low-maintenance borders. Gardeners love dwarf black mondo grass not only for its unique look, but also for its versatility and tolerance of shade and drought. Whether you’re updating a contemporary landscape or refreshing a cottage garden, this striking grass will elevate your outdoor space with effortless flair.

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 (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$8.78
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$8.78
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Cyperus papyrus Nana (Dwarf Papyrus)

Cyperus papyrus Nana, the Dwarf Papyrus, is a perennial grass with bright green leaves and distinctive umbrella-like flower sprays in summer. Growing...

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Pittosporum 'Irish Luck' (Black Matipo)

Pittosporum 'Irish Luck' is a hardy evergreen shrub known for its dense, bright green foliage and tidy growth habit. This versatile plant is well...

From$21.53
Chionochloa flavicans (Miniature ToeToe) plants with cascading cream-coloured flowers.

Chionochloa flavicans (Miniature Toetoe)

Chionochloa flavicans, commonly known as Miniature ToeToe or Dwarf Toe Toe, is a highly popular NZ native grass. It has flowing, green foliage and...

From$13.54
Large Black Rage Phormium in a garden with black foliage.

Phormium 'Black Rage'

Phormium 'Black Rage' is a striking New Zealand native flax known for its bold, upright leaves in deep shades of dark purple to near black. This...

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Anemanthele lessoniana grass with colourful, orange and green foliage growing in a pot.

Anemanthele lessoniana (Pheasant's Tail Grass)

Anemanthele lessoniana, also known as Pheasant's Tail Grass or New Zealand Wind Grass, is a graceful, clump-forming ornamental grass native to New...

From$16.88
Coprosma 'Black Cloud' shrub in a garden with black and green foliage.

Coprosma 'Black Cloud' (Black Coprosma)

Coprosma 'Black Cloud' is a striking evergreen shrub valued for its deep near black foliage and compact growth habit. Well suited to New Zealand...

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Heuchera Northern Exposure Black (Coral Bells)

Heuchera Northern Exposure Black is an herbaceous perennial grown for its richly coloured foliage. The leaves are deep purple-black, wavy, and...

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Isolepis cernua (Fiber-Optic Grass)

Isolepsis cernua (aka Scirpus cernua), commonly known as Fiber Optic Grass, grows as a tidy clump to about 25 cm tall and the same wide with green...

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Ficus Black Knight growing in a pot with lush, dark foliage.

Ficus Black Knight

Ficus ‘Black Knight’ is a striking indoor plant characterised by its large, glossy leaves, which range from deep green to nearly black tones. This...

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A Pittosporum 'Midget' plant in a garden.

Pittosporum 'Midget' (Dwarf Pittosporum)

Pittosporum 'Midget' is a dwarf variety that features foliage made up of small, fresh green leaves. The foliage is complemented with small, purple...

From$40.43
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Cymbopogon citratus (Lemongrass)

Cymbopogon citratus (aka Andropogon citratus), commonly known as Lemongrass Grass or Citronella Grass, grows as a clump and produces flavoursome and...

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Pittosporum Small Ball (Dwarf Pittosporum)

Pittosporum Small Ball is a dwarf variety grown for its glossy, olive-green leaves which are held densely. This evergreen grows with a ball shape to...

From$25.58
Libertia paniculata plant with white flowers.

Libertia paniculata (Grass Flag)

Libertia paniculata is an elegant evergreen perennial admired for its fine, upright foliage and delicate white flowers that appear in airy clusters...

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Hebe 'Black Satin' plant with dark foliage and pink flowers.

Hebe Black Satin

Hebe Black Satin is a popular variety of Hebe due to both its colourful foliage and flowers. It grows as a rounded shrub carrying glossy, dark purple...

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Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' green foliage.

Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' (Dwarf Karo)

Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ is a compact, evergreen shrub known for its dense, upright growth and attractive grey-green foliage. A hardy New...

From$21.53
Lomandra longifolia plant beside a path with lush, green foliage.

Lomandra longifolia (Basket Grass)

Lomandra longifolia (Basket Grass) is a resilient, evergreen ornamental grass native to Australia. Growing to approximately 60 cm in height and 65 cm...

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Kniphofia Dwarf Scarlet plant with red flowers.

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' is a compact perennial known for its vibrant red flower spikes that rise above neat grassy foliage. This eye catching plant...

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Canna 'Tropicanna Black'

Camellia 'Twilight' is a stunning evergreen shrub admired for its soft pink to blush toned flowers and glossy green foliage. It brings elegant winter...

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Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree)

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Juniperus procumbens Nana (Japanese Dwarf Juniper)

Juniperus procumbens 'Nana', commonly known as the Prostrate Juniper, is a ground-hugging conifer that forms a carpet of blue-green, needle-like...

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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.

From$254.60
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1m 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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Carex 'Everlime' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.

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Ophiopogon planiscapus

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Anemanthele, Camellia, Canna, Carex, Chionochloa, Coprosma, Cymbopogon, Cyperus, Ficus, Fuscospora, Hebe, Heuchera, Hymenosporum, Isolepis, Juniperus, Kniphofia, Libertia, Lomandra, Ophiopogon, Phormium Pittosporum and Schefflera, or related Categories - Black polythene, Flaxes, Grasses, Mondo Grass, Groundcover Plants, Indoor Plants, Perennials Evergreen Shrubs and Evergreen Trees.

Search dwarf black mondo grass

What Makes Dwarf Black Mondo Grass Special?

Dwarf black mondo grass is a cultivar of the Ophiopogon genus, valued for its rich, black leaves and delicate purple flowers that bloom in summer. Unlike taller varieties, this dwarf form grows only to about 10–15cm in height, keeping a dense, mat-forming appearance that’s perfect for ground covers or small-scale design. It thrives in both sunny and shady spots, adds year-round colour and texture, and requires minimal maintenance.

Ideal Uses for Dwarf Black Mondo Grass

This plant's adaptability makes it a landscape favourite. Use dwarf black mondo grass as a border along garden beds, edge pathways, or fill gaps between stepping stones for a striking, polished look. It’s also excellent for container gardening, whether in pots or troughs. Its tolerance for shade means you can use it under trees or alongside ferns and hostas for a dramatic contrast. Looking for other inspirational planting options? Explore Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens for taller black foliage, or consider Ophiopogon Black Dragon for extra drama.

Plant Care and Growth Tips

Dwarf black mondo grass is renowned for its easy-care nature. It prefers well-drained soil and will happily grow in both sun and part shade. Once established, it's drought-tolerant and generally pest-free. Simply water during dry spells and keep the area mulched. In spring, tidy up old leaves to encourage fresh growth. For planting in small gardens or along borders, check out Ophiopogon japonicus Nana, which offers similar compact features.

Companion Planting and Design

Pairing dwarf black mondo grass with foliage plants enhances its unique colour. Try mixing it with silvery plants or vibrant green grasses for layered effect. If you’re considering more ground covers or want to extend your black foliage palette, take a look at Ophiopogon Kyoto or the classic Ophiopogon planiscapus to expand your design options.

Shop Dwarf Black Mondo Grass for Your New Zealand Garden

Create striking, low-maintenance landscapes with dwarf black mondo grass. Its compact size, bold colour, and hardiness make it an essential plant for creative gardeners across New Zealand. Plant solo or mix and match with other Ophiopogon varieties to achieve beautiful, year-round texture and contrast in your garden.


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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.

Our garden favourites Sambucus nigra and Gardenia radicans get lots of love, but don’t miss out on a few lesser-known delights: Gaura Emmeline White, Phormium 'Veneer', and Cordyline Broadsword.
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