Species

6 other cultivars

grass

Ebony Knight Mondo Grass

Q: What zones can Ebony Knight Mondo Grass grow in?

Ebony Knight Mondo Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Q: Is Ebony Knight Mondo Grass deer resistant?

Yes — Ebony Knight Mondo Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Q: When does Ebony Knight Mondo Grass bloom?

Ebony Knight 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.

Q: Does Ebony Knight Mondo Grass need full sun?

Ebony Knight Mondo Grass does best in part shade.

Q: Is Ebony Knight Mondo Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ebony Knight Mondo Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Ebony Knight'

$18.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Low-growing perennial with dark foliage, ideal for ground cover.

Unique dark almost black leaves that provide contrast and texture.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking dark foliage that adds contrast and depth to shaded gardens.

Low-maintenance groundcover that suppresses weeds and reduces garden upkeep.

Supports local beneficial insects and adds aesthetic value to shaded habitats.

SpeciesOphiopogon planiscapusBlack Mondo Grass

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Rare Roots

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$18.95

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 in a humid environment for 4–6 weeks to root.
Place in partial to full shade for optimal growth.
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during active growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil is well-draining to prevent root rot and encourage healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Provide partial shade in hot climates
Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
Prune dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun in hottest parts of the day
Refrain from using heavy, clay soil without amendment
Do not neglect mulching in dry seasons

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

Dark-leaved groundcover for shady bordersContrast plant in mixed bedsLow-maintenance edging plant

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Heuchera AstilbeJapanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions