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Description
Ophiopogon Planiscapus Nigrescens, also known as black mondo grass, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to East Asia and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. It has dark purple or black foliage and produces small white or pink flowers in late summer. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of 6-8 inches and a width of 10-12 inches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Ophiopogon |
Appearance
The black mondo grass has dark purple or black foliage that can add a dramatic effect to any landscape. Its leaves are narrow and strap-like, growing up to 12 inches long and 0.25 inches wide. It produces small white or pink flowers on short stems in late summer, which are followed by blue-black berries. Its roots are rhizomatous and fleshy, which helps the plant to store water during dry periods.
Care Guide
Water: Black mondo grass prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of flower and fruit formation.
Soil: Black mondo grass prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, from acidic to alkaline.
Sunlight: Black mondo grass prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun exposure, but direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Black mondo grass is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Black mondo grass is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot and rust. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering, improve air circulation around the plant, and remove infected leaves.
Habitat
Black mondo grass is native to East Asia and is commonly found in woodland areas, on rocky slopes, and in meadows. It prefers moist but well-draining soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is black mondo grass invasive?
A: No, black mondo grass is not invasive. It is a slow-growing plant that does not spread aggressively.
Q: How often should I fertilize black mondo grass?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Q: Can black mondo grass grow in full sun?
A: Black mondo grass prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun exposure, but direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: How do I propagate black mondo grass?
A: Black mondo grass can be propagated by division in early spring or autumn. Dig up the plant and divide the rhizomes into smaller sections, each with several leaves and roots. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Ophiopogon japonicus
- Ophiopogon intermedius
- Ophiopogon planiscapus
- Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nana’
References
- “Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k440.
- “Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/325717/Ophiopogon-planiscapus-Nigrescens/Details.
- “Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’.” The Spruce. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/ophiopogon-planiscapus-nigrescens-plant-profile-4848346.
