Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &
Black Mondo Grass &

Get ready to meet the stunning beauty of Black Mondo Grass, scientifically known as Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens'! Black mondo grass is called "black" because of the dark, almost black color of its foliage, with "nigrescens" meaning "black" in Latin. The name Ophiopogon is a combination of two Greek words, pogon is a beard, and ophis is a snake.  This extraordinary grass plant, also called black lily turf, but previously known as "Black Dragon," "Ebony Knight," or "Arabicus."   

Let's talk about those colors! With its narrow, grass-like leaves that come in an amazing blackish-purple hue depending on the light and can grow up to 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide, this mondo grass is sure to turn heads. It's like having a bewitching piece of the night sky right in your garden!  

It's no wonder this variety is hailed from Asia as having the darkest foliage among all perennials! As if that wasn't enough to captivate your senses, during the summertime, elegant white flowers resembling tiny bells make their grand entrance. These bell-shaped beauties boast a delightful pink to-lilac tinting that adds an extra touch of charm.  The mature mondo grass produces globular, dark purple berries in the autumn. 

Mondo grass is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively disease-resistant and can grow to be about 6-12 inches tall. This ornamental plant is often used as a ground cover or border plant, and its dark foliage provides a nice contrast to other plants in the garden. It is generally considered safe for both humans and pets. 

Watering Needs 

The mondo grass is a species that requires minimal watering. As a drought-tolerant plant, this black Ophiopogon has developed an effective mechanism for storing water in its leaves. Oftentimes, people worry about underwatering their plants when they're actually giving them too much water - succulents, in particular, don't thrive well in damp soil which can lead to root problems. 

Remember, if this mondo grass is underwater, its leaves will start to turn brown and dry out. If it is overwatered, the roots can start to rot, and the leaves may turn yellow. So, it's important to only water them when the soil has dried out. 

Light Requirements 

The mondo grass needs a lot of bright sunshine - either full sun or partial shade. If you're starting with a new plant that you recently bought from a nursery, don't expose it to too much sunlight all at once. Gradually increases its exposure so that it doesn't get burned by the intense rays.  

If mondo grass is grown in full sun for a long period, the leaves can turn brown and scorched. If it is grown in too much shade, the leaves can become greener and less dark. Ideally, it should be grown in partial shade to maintain its dark color.  

Keep an eye on your black grass leaves - if they start looking burnt, consider investing in a sunshade or moving it somewhere shadier. And guess what? You can even grow these beauties indoors! Just make sure to position them near southern and western windows for optimal sunlight exposure. Don't leave them languishing in dim light though - move them outdoors from time to time when natural light is scarce (like during winter). 

With proper care and attention paid to their light requirements, purple roses are sure to be statement pieces wherever they grow! 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The mondo grass favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized potting mix that contains over 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your black mondo grass to thrive.   

Natural fertilizers with an equal mixture of NPK (5-10-5) also last longer and keep your soil alive by adding other beneficial compounds and microbes that encourage plant health and nutrient absorption. Additionally, overfertilization can have a negative effect on mondo grass, causing them to grow too quickly and become weak and susceptible to disease. It can also lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil, which can further harm the plant and damage the surrounding ecosystem.  

So, skip those harsh chemicals and give your black mondo some love with some awesome natural balanced fertilizer once in the spring! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

Mondo grass is a versatile perennial plant that is highly valued for its dark foliage. It is typically grown outdoors year-round in hardiness zones 5 - 10, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. However, it is important to note that black grass may require some extra protection in colder zones to ensure its survival during harsh winters. It can tolerate mild frost but if the frost is too severe, the leaves become damaged and turn brown. 

Remember, it can also withstand a range of humidity levels, but it prefers moderate to high humidity. If the air is too dry, the leaves can become brown and crispy. To maintain the plant's health, it's important to keep the soil consistently moist and to mist the leaves with water regularly. 

Be sure to add Ophiopogon planiscapus Nigrescens - black mondo grass to your home or garden and enjoy its low maintenance care, while admiring its impressive display year after year.

Bloom Season Summer
Botanical Name Ophiopogon Nigrescens
Common Name Mondo Grass, Black Mondo Grass, black lily turf
Flower Color Light pink, white
Genus Ophiopogon
Growth Habit Clumping
Growth Rate Moderate
Hardiness Zone 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Mature Size 8 in. tall, 12 in. wide
Native Area Asia
Plant Type Perennial grass
Propagation By divisions
Resistance Drought tolerant, mild frost tolerant, deer resistant, pest resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized potting mix
Special Features Showy flowers
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, friendly to cats, friendly to dogs
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Mondo Grass

Mondo grass is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can still face a few common problems and pests. One common issue is the presence of spider mites, which can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves.  

Another potential problem is root rot, especially if the soil becomes excessively wet or poorly drained. Proper watering and regular inspection can help prevent these issues and ensure the health of your mondo grass.  

FAQs - Mondo Grass Plant

Where does black mondo grass grow best? 

Mondo grass is a plant that grows best in areas that receive partial to full shade. It prefers soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil with 5.6 - 6.7 pH levels and can grow best in USDA zones 5-10 outdoors year-round.  

It is commonly found growing in woodland gardens, under trees, or as a border plant in shady areas. Additionally, this ornamental grass can also be grown in containers or used as a ground cover to add a touch of elegance to any garden space.  

Is mondo grass safe? 

Mondo grass is generally considered safe to grow and handle. Although it is not known to cause any adverse health effects, it is not intended for consumption. It is an ornamental plant that is grown for its attractive foliage rather than for its culinary or medicinal properties. It is not known to be toxic, but it is not recommended for human consumption. 

What is mondo grass good for? 

Mondo grass is an ornamental plant that is grown for its attractive foliage and ground-covering properties. It is often used in landscaping and garden design to create borders, edging, and other decorative features. It is also used to help prevent soil erosion and to provide a low-maintenance ground cover in areas where grass is difficult to grow.  

Additionally, mondo grass is known to be a good air purifier, helping to remove pollutants from the air and improve indoor air quality. 

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Black Mondo Grass 'Ophiopogon planiscapus Nigrescens'

sku: 2288

Regular price$ 16.99
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Please note: All Landscape Ready plants that are in a 6-inch pot or larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

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If you live in a cold climate and are expecting temperatures below 40 degrees within the next five days after placing your order, we highly recommend adding a heat pack to your order. If you do not order a heat pack, we do not send one with your order.

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To prevent plants from freezing while in transit, orders placed for areas with extreme severe freezing temperatures will be held for shipment until it is safe to ship.

Plants that are in 3.5" pots and smaller will be shipped in its pot to prevent any damage to the roots. Any plant that is 6" and larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

Depending on the species and season, you will receive a very similar plant to the one in the picture. It may or may not be blooming at the time of your purchase.

We ship via USPS Priority Mail, and we calculate the shipping cost based on the weight and volume of your purchase. Care instructions are included in every package you order. Please allow us up to 3 business days to process your order. Depending on your location, we will ship the plants on a certain day to avoid transit time during weekends or holidays. If you wish to receive your order on a specific date, or have special instructions, please add a note on your order. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at any time.

  • Description
  • Features

Get ready to meet the stunning beauty of Black Mondo Grass, scientifically known as Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens'! Black mondo grass is called "black" because of the dark, almost black color of its foliage, with "nigrescens" meaning "black" in Latin. The name Ophiopogon is a combination of two Greek words, pogon is a beard, and ophis is a snake.  This extraordinary grass plant, also called black lily turf, but previously known as "Black Dragon," "Ebony Knight," or "Arabicus."   

Let's talk about those colors! With its narrow, grass-like leaves that come in an amazing blackish-purple hue depending on the light and can grow up to 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide, this mondo grass is sure to turn heads. It's like having a bewitching piece of the night sky right in your garden!  

It's no wonder this variety is hailed from Asia as having the darkest foliage among all perennials! As if that wasn't enough to captivate your senses, during the summertime, elegant white flowers resembling tiny bells make their grand entrance. These bell-shaped beauties boast a delightful pink to-lilac tinting that adds an extra touch of charm.  The mature mondo grass produces globular, dark purple berries in the autumn. 

Mondo grass is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively disease-resistant and can grow to be about 6-12 inches tall. This ornamental plant is often used as a ground cover or border plant, and its dark foliage provides a nice contrast to other plants in the garden. It is generally considered safe for both humans and pets. 

Watering Needs 

The mondo grass is a species that requires minimal watering. As a drought-tolerant plant, this black Ophiopogon has developed an effective mechanism for storing water in its leaves. Oftentimes, people worry about underwatering their plants when they're actually giving them too much water - succulents, in particular, don't thrive well in damp soil which can lead to root problems. 

Remember, if this mondo grass is underwater, its leaves will start to turn brown and dry out. If it is overwatered, the roots can start to rot, and the leaves may turn yellow. So, it's important to only water them when the soil has dried out. 

Light Requirements 

The mondo grass needs a lot of bright sunshine - either full sun or partial shade. If you're starting with a new plant that you recently bought from a nursery, don't expose it to too much sunlight all at once. Gradually increases its exposure so that it doesn't get burned by the intense rays.  

If mondo grass is grown in full sun for a long period, the leaves can turn brown and scorched. If it is grown in too much shade, the leaves can become greener and less dark. Ideally, it should be grown in partial shade to maintain its dark color.  

Keep an eye on your black grass leaves - if they start looking burnt, consider investing in a sunshade or moving it somewhere shadier. And guess what? You can even grow these beauties indoors! Just make sure to position them near southern and western windows for optimal sunlight exposure. Don't leave them languishing in dim light though - move them outdoors from time to time when natural light is scarce (like during winter). 

With proper care and attention paid to their light requirements, purple roses are sure to be statement pieces wherever they grow! 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The mondo grass favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized potting mix that contains over 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your black mondo grass to thrive.   

Natural fertilizers with an equal mixture of NPK (5-10-5) also last longer and keep your soil alive by adding other beneficial compounds and microbes that encourage plant health and nutrient absorption. Additionally, overfertilization can have a negative effect on mondo grass, causing them to grow too quickly and become weak and susceptible to disease. It can also lead to nutrient imbalances in the soil, which can further harm the plant and damage the surrounding ecosystem.  

So, skip those harsh chemicals and give your black mondo some love with some awesome natural balanced fertilizer once in the spring! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

Mondo grass is a versatile perennial plant that is highly valued for its dark foliage. It is typically grown outdoors year-round in hardiness zones 5 - 10, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. However, it is important to note that black grass may require some extra protection in colder zones to ensure its survival during harsh winters. It can tolerate mild frost but if the frost is too severe, the leaves become damaged and turn brown. 

Remember, it can also withstand a range of humidity levels, but it prefers moderate to high humidity. If the air is too dry, the leaves can become brown and crispy. To maintain the plant's health, it's important to keep the soil consistently moist and to mist the leaves with water regularly. 

Be sure to add Ophiopogon planiscapus Nigrescens - black mondo grass to your home or garden and enjoy its low maintenance care, while admiring its impressive display year after year.

Bloom Season Summer
Botanical Name Ophiopogon Nigrescens
Common Name Mondo Grass, Black Mondo Grass, black lily turf
Flower Color Light pink, white
Genus Ophiopogon
Growth Habit Clumping
Growth Rate Moderate
Hardiness Zone 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Mature Size 8 in. tall, 12 in. wide
Native Area Asia
Plant Type Perennial grass
Propagation By divisions
Resistance Drought tolerant, mild frost tolerant, deer resistant, pest resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized potting mix
Special Features Showy flowers
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, friendly to cats, friendly to dogs
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Mondo Grass

Mondo grass is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can still face a few common problems and pests. One common issue is the presence of spider mites, which can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves.  

Another potential problem is root rot, especially if the soil becomes excessively wet or poorly drained. Proper watering and regular inspection can help prevent these issues and ensure the health of your mondo grass.  

FAQs - Mondo Grass Plant

Where does black mondo grass grow best? 

Mondo grass is a plant that grows best in areas that receive partial to full shade. It prefers soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil with 5.6 - 6.7 pH levels and can grow best in USDA zones 5-10 outdoors year-round.  

It is commonly found growing in woodland gardens, under trees, or as a border plant in shady areas. Additionally, this ornamental grass can also be grown in containers or used as a ground cover to add a touch of elegance to any garden space.  

Is mondo grass safe? 

Mondo grass is generally considered safe to grow and handle. Although it is not known to cause any adverse health effects, it is not intended for consumption. It is an ornamental plant that is grown for its attractive foliage rather than for its culinary or medicinal properties. It is not known to be toxic, but it is not recommended for human consumption. 

What is mondo grass good for? 

Mondo grass is an ornamental plant that is grown for its attractive foliage and ground-covering properties. It is often used in landscaping and garden design to create borders, edging, and other decorative features. It is also used to help prevent soil erosion and to provide a low-maintenance ground cover in areas where grass is difficult to grow.  

Additionally, mondo grass is known to be a good air purifier, helping to remove pollutants from the air and improve indoor air quality. 

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