We're offering you a Black Perennial Grass Plants for £8.99, saving you up to 50% off Thompson and Morgan's's price of £17.98 (correct as of 30.04.2026).

Add Dramatic Contrast with Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

The Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens', also known as Black Mondo Grass, is a hardy evergreen perennial prized for its truly black, grass-like foliage. Native to East Asia, this plant stands out in any garden scheme, providing a striking visual contrast against typical green plantings.

• Botanical Family: Asparagaceae
• Mature Size: Grows to approximately 20cm in height and spreads up to 30cm.
• Flowering: Produces small, bell-shaped pale lilac flowers in summer, followed by decorative, inky-blue berries for extended seasonal interest.

Why Choose Black Perennial Grass?

• Evergreen impact: Maintains its dramatic black foliage throughout the year.
• Drought tolerant: Once established, requires little watering—ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
• Versatile placement: Perfect for borders, rockeries, containers, or as ground cover beneath shrubs.

Growing Guide & Care Tips

• Sun/Shade: Thrives in full sun to partial shade—darker foliage develops best with more sun exposure.
• Soil Preference: Prefers moist but well-drained soil; tolerates a range of pH levels but performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soils.
• Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK (USDA zones 6–9), tolerating frost and variable weather conditions.
• Watering: Water regularly after planting; once established, only water during prolonged dry spells.
• Maintenance: Remove old or damaged leaves in early spring to keep the clump tidy; fertilise lightly with balanced feed if growth slows.

Design Ideas & Companion Plants

• Create bold borders: Pair with silver-leaved plants like Stachys byzantina or bright green hostas for maximum contrast.
• Pots & containers: Use as a feature plant on patios or balconies—its compact size makes it easy to manage.
• Beneath shrubs: Plant under Japanese maples or camellias where its black foliage will shine against lighter backgrounds.

FAQs

• When is the best time to plant?
  The best time to plant is in spring or autumn when soil is moist and temperatures are mild.
• How fast does it grow?
  This grass grows slowly but steadily—expect mature clumps within two to three years after planting.
• What type of soil does it prefer?
  This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil but adapts well to most garden soils if not waterlogged.