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Ophiopogon planiscapus Ebony Knight
Common Name: Ebony Knight Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Ebony Knight’ Ebony Knight Black Mondo Grass Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Ebony Knight’ is a low, grass-like evergreen perennial used as a dramatic groundcover or edging plant. It forms dense, clumping tufts of narrow, arching, purple-black to nearly black foliage. Small bell-shaped white to pale lilac flowers appear in summer, followed by dark purple-black berries that are often tucked within the foliage. Although it looks like an ornamental grass, mondo grass is not a true grass. Type: Evergreen perennial / grass-like groundcover Mature Size: 6–12 in. wide × 6–12 in. tall USDA Zones: 6a–10b, sometimes listed as hardy into 5b with protection Form: Dense, clumping, arching tufts; spreads slowly by rhizomes Light: Part sun to part shade; best dark foliage color with some sun, especially morning sun Soil / Water: Moist, well-drained soil; prefers consistent moisture but not wet, heavy soil Bloom Time / Length: Summer, often July–August; about 2–4 weeks Wildlife: Flowers may attract small bees; berries can be eaten by birds, but ornamental value is mostly foliage Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for edging walkways, small-scale groundcover, rock gardens, containers, shade gardens, and contrast planting with gold, silver, chartreuse, or variegated foliage. Its black foliage is especially useful for creating color contrast in mixed perennial beds. It is slow-growing, compact, and deer resistant once established. Care: Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly during establishment. Avoid hot, dry sites, especially in full afternoon sun. Trim away winter-damaged foliage in early spring before new growth pushes. Divide mature clumps in spring if needed. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture, but do not bury the crown.
| Plant Type: | Ornamental Grass |
| Width: | 6-12" |
| Height: | 6-12" |
| Fragrant: | No |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Zone: | 6 - 10 |
| Deer Resistant: | No |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Bees, Birds |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Summer |
| Landscape/Use: | Container, Mass Planting, Pond Edge |
| Shape: | Clump, Arching |
| Soil Type | Moist well-drained |
| Flower Color: | White, Lavender |
| Leaf Color: | Black |
| Fall Color: | Black |