Another Perfect Plant: Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

Black Mondo Grass at In Situ (by Land Morphology)

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

Adrian Coerver

Every so often we spotlight the favorite plants of our staff.  This week’s plant was chosen by landscape designer Adrian Coerver: Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens', Black Mondo Grass. 

This unusual groundcover features striking grass-like foliage in a dark purple-black color.  The darkness of the foliage sets off other lighter colored plants when they are planted in proximity and can serve as a focal point when planted en masse. 

Black Mondo Grass prefers a sunny location and doesn’t survive well in areas with consistent snow cover, but where it does thrive, it looks spectacular.  Black mondo grass is a slow grower so if quick coverage is desired, decrease spacing and plant closely together.  At Land Morphology, we love this plant for its versatility and frequently use it in the landscape with clients who like a more modern feel to their garden.      

Black Mondo Grass at Chihuly Garden and Glass (by Land Morphology)

Reference:
Missouri Botanical Garden