Overview

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' is a clump forming grass in the genus Ophiopogon, part of the Asparagaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ground cover, borders and containers. It is native to Japan.

About

Ophiopogon planiscapus is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae. It is a small evergreen perennial growing to 20 cm (8 in) tall by 30 cm (12 in)wide.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Ophiopogon planiscapus

About the genus

Ophiopogon (lilyturf) is a genus of evergreen perennial plants native to warm temperate to tropical East, Southeast, and South Asia. Despite their grasslike appearance, they are not closely related to the true grasses, the Poaceae. The name of the genus is derived from Greek ὄφις ophis, 'snake' and πώγων pogon, 'beard', most probably referring to its leaves and tufted growth.

Wikipedia contributors, "Ophiopogon", CC BY-SA 4.0Ophiopogon

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ophiopogon

Sunlight
partial shade, shade
Soil type
well-drained, fertile
Soil pH
acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture
moist
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
ground cover, borders, containers
Native to
Japan

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

Cultivation
Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soil types and pH levels. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning
Remove old or damaged leaves in spring to maintain appearance.
Propagation
Division in spring or autumn.
Pest resistance
Slugs
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'?

Prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of soil types and pH levels. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'?

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' need?

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'?

Remove old or damaged leaves in spring to maintain appearance.

Is Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' hardy in the UK?

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'?

Division in spring or autumn.

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