Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon nigrescens
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moist, humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
The Story
Plant Bio
Ophiopogon nigrescens is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with dense, grass-like foliage that is dark purple to nearly black, forming a compact mound. It produces small, bell-shaped, white flowers in summer and black berries in autumn. This cultivar is distinguished by its striking dark foliage, which provides a dramatic contrast in shaded garden borders and underplantings, making it a popular choice for creating visual depth.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring
- Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Fertilize lightly in early spring for best growth
- Prune back any dead leaves in late winter
Pro Tip
Use well-drained, moist soil and partial shade for optimal growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Prune dead foliage in late winter
Don't
- Avoid excessive drought stress ❌
- Do not plant in full sun, which can scorch leaves
- Over-fertilize, which may cause leggy growth
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 4–9. 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?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Black Mondo Grass, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Black Mondo Grass bloom?
Black Mondo Grass typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. 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 part shade.
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'
Super Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Super Dwarf'
Tuff Tuft Lavender Ophiopogon
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tuff Tuft Lavender'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
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.
