Ophiopogon planiscarpus Nigrescens - Ornamental Black Grass

Hardy Perennial

• Flowers in : Foliage only
• Germination : Challenging
• Aftercare : Easy
• Ideal for : Borders, Containers
• Height : 12 inches

Description

More commonly known as the 'Black Grass'. Rarely offered as seed, creating a spectacular feature plant in borders or containers, as well as the perfect planting partner for Millium effusum Aureum. Produces approximately 60% truly black with the rest an attractive, darker green shade. Height: 15-30cm (6-12in).

Sowing Instructions

Sow seed on the surface of a good free draining, damp seed compost and lightly cover the seed with vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag place at a temperature of at 20C (69F). If after 3 weeks no germination has occurred, place container in a refrigerator (not freezer) at 5C (40F) for 3-4 weeks, then move the container back to the warmer temperature as indicated above. Germination can be erratic but usually takes between 30 & 150 days. Keep containers moist but not waterlogged and do not exclude light, as this helps germination.

Growing Instructions

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into trays or 7.5cm (3in) pots. Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 30-45cm (12-18in) apart.

Aftercare

Cut back foliage the following spring to encourage new coloured grass each year. Can be grown in full sun or a semi-shaded part of the garden.