Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, Korea
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
A low-growing, clump-forming, grass-like perennial. It spreads by short rhizomes to form a dense carpet of evergreen, strap-like leaves. This cultivar is known for its striking black foliage, which provides excellent contrast in garden designs.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during propagation.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Prune dead or damaged foliage in early spring for tidy growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for vibrant foliage and optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead leaves
- Fertilize once a month during growing season
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't expose to full, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from neglecting pruning to maintain health
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Black Mondo Grass questions
What zones can Black Mondo Grass grow in?
Black Mondo Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Black Mondo Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Black Mondo Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black Mondo Grass bloom?
Black Mondo Grass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black Mondo Grass need full sun?
Black Mondo Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Ophiopogon to compare
Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Gyoku Ryu'
Tuff Tuft Silver
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tuff Tuft Silver'
Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'
Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon nigrescens
Super Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Super Dwarf'
Tuff Tuft Lavender Ophiopogon
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tuff Tuft Lavender'
Keep exploring
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Grow Black Mondo Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
