Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

A small, evergreen, clump-forming perennial growing to 0.2m tall and 1m+ wide.

This small growing perennial has fine, narrow black leaves around 10cm to 15cm long. Small spikes of many purplish-white flowers are produced on mature plants through the summer months followed by spherical dark blue fruit.

Prefers full sun with well-drained soil, but it will tolerate partial shade and dry conditions once established.

Always choose healthy, well-grown plants and plant after autumn rains. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow-release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic-based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre as new growth begins.

Apply an organic mulch annually to help suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre in spring as new growth begins. Mondo grass needs little ongoing maintenance. Spent flower stems can be cut back after flowering to keep the plants looking neat. Division of plants is easy with a garden fork, just lift plants and tease apart.

Generally trouble-free but beware of oxalis weed getting into established clumps as this can be very difficult to remove.

Urban Trees