Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’ (Black Mundo Grass or Black Lilyturf)

A really super little plant that is perfect for edging a path, is happy in pots, or to add some contrast to rock garden or border plantings.  With narrow, strappy leaves that are so purple they are almost black, it will form a neat clump roughly 20cm. tall and up to 30cm. across. Also known as Black Lilyturf or Black Mundo Grass, this little plant has a bit of a secret. In early summer, it will produce short spikes of pinkish bell-shaped flowers, all very sweet and pretty, but crouch down to get your nose really close, and they have the most beautifully intense smell just like hyacinths. The little flower spikes are followed by long lasting black berries.  Perfect for edging a path, this plant is happy whether in pots, or to add some contrast to rock garden or border plantings.  The dark colouration means that it really stands out if placed against a light background or mulch.

Growth is slow and steady from year to year. Maintenance is easy as they need only a quick tidy. It likes a neutral to acid soil, that is moist to well drained and while it will grow in shade, it can sometimes get a bit green, lacking the intensity of colour that it shows when planted in full sun.