Ophiopogon planiscapus Nigrescens

A black leaved grass-like plant, related to Liriope. Hardy, but slow growing, even these plants filling 1 litre pots are actually quite old! They will grow in sun or shade and provide a great year-round foil for other plants - Autumn Flowering Crocus, Colchicums or Snowdrops. In more shady conditions they flower more profusely with small violet flowers that then form attractive black shiny seedpods. From 1 litre pots.

RHS Award of Garden Merit.

This plant/cultivar has been awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit because it has proved to be reliable in appropriate conditions and a good performing plant. 

Planting Instructions

These tough, but slow growing black leaved plants prefer shady well drained position without too much lime (signs of that are bleached out leaves). Plant into reasonably good, moisture retentive soil, watering in to establish and with 12" (30cm) between clumps. Avoid planting them in full sun as in scorching years their foliage can get burnt.  In the shade they get pollinated (not so much in sunny conditions) and then form attractive black seed capsules. Often the plants from these are green leaved however.  A great plant to use in combination with white flowered small bulbs.

Plant Details

Flowers   Summer
Height     8" (20cm)
Hardy