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Key characteristics

Family: Asparagaceae
Height: 6 to 12 inches
Width: 6 to 12 inches, slowly spreading clumps
Flower color: Pale lavender to white
Foliage color: Black or dark purple
Bloom time: Summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Average
Maintenance: Low
Growing zone: USDA zones 6 to 9
Wildlife: Bees (pollinators)

Groundcovers

Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’

Black Mondo Grass

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens', commonly known as black mondo grass, is a bold ornamental plant prized for its dramatic, nearly black, strap-like foliage. Blooming in mid to late summer, it produces small, bell-shaped, pale lilac to white flowers that appear in clusters among the dark leaves. Following the blooms, glossy black berries develop, adding further visual interest.

Native to Japan, 'Nigrescens' is valued for its unusual foliage color and texture.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Average

Bloom time

Summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Formal Gardens
Rock Gardens
Containers
Borders

Companion plants

Ajugas · Heathers · Heucheras · Japanese forest grass · Acorus · Autumn ferns

Design tip

Repeat this dark foliage along pathways or at the front of planting beds where its dramatic color creates bold definition. Pair it with golden foliage, silver leaves, and lighter flowering companions to produce striking contrast and a refined, layered composition.