Description
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger' | Black mondo
The Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger', commonly referred to as the black mondo, is an exquisite perennial known for its unique, almost black foliage. This ornamental plant is a striking choice for borders, group plantings, and container gardens, adding a touch of sophistication with its dark, lustrous leaves.
Ophiopogon 'Niger' is a fantastic ground cover plant. The plant not only offers a surprising colour contrast in the garden, but also requires little maintenance.
Key Features
The Ophiopogon boasts several remarkable features that make it a valuable addition to any garden:
- The plant showcases deep purple to black foliage throughout the year, maintaining its colour across all seasons.
- In late summer, Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger' produces delicate pink flowers, followed by striking blue fruit in the autumn.
- It is an evergreen species, ensuring year-round interest in the garden.
- The clump-forming growth habit of the black mondo grass allows it to spread neatly in its designated space.
- It reaches an ultimate height of about 25 cm, making it an ideal choice for edge plantings and low borders.
- Although it does not require pruning, it can be propagated by division to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tips
- When planting Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger', consider pairing it with plants that have golden, yellow, or light green foliage to create a dramatic contrast in the garden.
- Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.
- Despite its average water needs, be cautious not to overwater, as the black mondo is not drought-resistant.
- Propagate the plant through division during spring or autumn to rejuvenate and expand your collection.
- Choose a location where the plant will receive sun to partial shade for optimal growth and colour development.