Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Black'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Black' is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with dense, grass-like foliage that forms a compact clump, featuring striking black foliage and small, bell-shaped white flowers in summer. This cultivar is notable for its intensely dark, almost black foliage that provides dramatic contrast in garden borders and shaded areas, making it a striking ornamental ground cover.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck mature rhizomes into well-draining soil
- Water regularly until established, about 2 weeks
- Place in partial shade for best foliage color
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Pro Tip
Ensure soil drains well; avoid excessive watering to keep foliage healthy
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water when topsoil feels dry 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Divide every 3-4 years to rejuvenate
Don't
- Overwater to prevent soggy roots ❌
- Expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves ❌
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| 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 6–10. 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 late 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 'Niger'
Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'
Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon nigrescens
Super Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Super Dwarf'
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Hardy in your zone?
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.
