Ophiopogon Planiscapus Nigrescens - Lilyturf

Ophiopogon Planiscapus Nigrescens common name Lilyturf is also referred to as Black Grass or Black Mondo Grass. It is a clump forming small grass with narrow curving, almost black but in fact very dark purple leaves. Clusters of pale purplish pink flowers following by blue-black fruit in summer months. Max height 20cm / Max spread 30cm. Full sun / partial shade. Frost hardy.

Although it might seem exotic and demanding at first glance, this spectacular perennial is actually easy to grow and care for. Ophiopogon Planiscapus Nigrescens thrives in both sunny locations and dappled shade, and prefers slightly acidic, humus-rich, well-drained soils. When it comes to watering, it is important to ensure the soil doesn’t dry out, especially in the winter. The compact, clump-forming habit of Lilyturf requires no pruning to stay in perfect shape.

Used often to create an edge, this small low-growing black mondo grass gives a contemporary simple look. 

Robust and adaptable, Lilyturf is fully hardy in all of the United Kingdom, and fares well in areas with severe winters, where temperatures drop to -15 degrees. Ophiopogon Planiscapus Nigrescens is considered pest and disease free, and doesn’t require sheltering from frost. Once established, Ophiopogon Nigrescens is salt and drought tolerant, which makes it a great choice for coastal gardens.

Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society, a sure sign that it will perform well in most gardens.

A low-growing, evergreen perennial, Lilyturf is prized for its deep purple, narrow, arching leaves. The unusual foliage offers year-round interest, and forms a tufted mound, which makes it ideal for path edges or covering bare patches of ground in your garden. Although Ophiopogon Planiscapus Nigrescens can be planted en masse for a dramatic effect, this purple-leaved cultivar looks best when contrasted by lighter ornamental grasses. For a truly striking combination of varieties that will make your garden stand out, pair Lilyturf with cultivars such as Pennisetum Setaceum Fireworks, Festuca Glauca or Carex Oshimensis Evergold. As it doesn’t mind partial shade, this variety of black mondo grass can be used for underplanting shrubs or trees as well. Suitable for growing in containers.

If you’re looking for more decorative grasses, make sure to take a look at the ornamental grass varieties we have available.