Complete Gardening
Transform your garden into a scene of captivating mystery with these 25 exquisite black and dark foliage perennials.
Each plant offers a unique aesthetic, combining elegance and drama to create a visually stunning landscape.
Ideal for gardeners seeking bold contrasts and rich, moody hues, these perennials promise to be the centerpiece of any garden design.
1. Black Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’)
Black Mondo Grass, or Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’, is a striking ground cover known for its nearly black, tufted leaves. These leaves create a bold, modern look that effortlessly enhances any garden space.
Ideal for edging paths or filling in between larger plants, this perennial thrives in both sunny and shaded areas. Its low maintenance nature and evergreen quality make it a favorite for gardeners aiming for a sophisticated look.
Combine it with lighter foliage or blooms to accentuate its dark elegance. This grass adds not only texture but also an unparalleled depth to your garden.
2. Heuchera ‘Obsidian’
Heuchera ‘Obsidian’ is celebrated for its velvety, deep black foliage, making it a perfect choice for gardeners wanting to add contrast against lighter blooms. This coral bell variant thrives in partial shade, offering a luxurious texture to garden beds.
The leaves are not only striking but also hold a glossy sheen that catches and reflects light beautifully. As a hardy perennial, it withstands varying climates while maintaining its rich color.
Use it as a focal point in your shaded garden areas to draw attention or as a stunning border for pathways.
3. Heuchera ‘Midnight Rose’
Heuchera ‘Midnight Rose’ features dramatic burgundy leaves that nearly appear black, making it a standout focal point in any garden. The leaves are flecked with hot pink spots, adding an unexpected splash of color.
This perennial not only captivates with its unique foliage but also proves resilient in various environments. It flourishes best in partial shade, providing gardeners with a low-maintenance yet visually dynamic option for their landscapes.
Plant ‘Midnight Rose’ in containers or flower beds, pairing with lighter colored companions for a striking contrast that enlivens any outdoor space.
4. Heuchera ‘Black Swan’
The Heuchera ‘Black Swan’ boasts exceptionally dark foliage with a glossy finish that intensifies in deep shade. This perennial’s leaves create a mysterious and elegant appearance, enhancing the visual drama of any garden.
Perfect for shaded borders or as a centerpiece, ‘Black Swan’ stands out with its distinctive color and texture. Its resilience and adaptability to different soil types make it a favorite for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Pair it with contrasting lighter plants to highlight its beauty, ensuring a garden design that captures attention and admiration from all who visit.
5. Heuchera ‘Black Ace’
Heuchera ‘Black Ace’ offers an array of almost-black leaves that create a striking textural contrast in any garden setting. This dynamic cultivar thrives in shaded areas, bringing a sense of depth and intrigue.
The leaves’ unique coloration is not only visually appealing but also long-lasting throughout the growing season. Ideal for borders or as an accent plant, ‘Black Ace’ combines well with other perennials that have lighter or contrasting foliage.
Its robust nature and minimal care requirements make it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of drama without extensive maintenance.
6. Heuchera ‘Nightfall’
Heuchera ‘Nightfall’ is a deep, dark foliage variety that exudes mystery and sophistication in any planting scheme. The plant’s leaves are rich in color and texture, offering an elegant addition to shaded garden areas.
‘Nightfall’ stands out for its ability to withstand both sun and shade, making it a versatile option for different garden designs. Its low maintenance needs and striking appearance make it a top choice for gardeners seeking a dramatic yet elegant look.
Pair with brighter flowers or lighter foliage to create stunning visual contrasts that enhance your garden’s allure.
7. Oxalis triangularis (Purple Shamrock)
Oxalis triangularis, commonly known as Purple Shamrock, features triangular, deep purple leaves that nearly border on black. This whimsical yet moody plant brings a unique charm to any garden with its distinctive leaf shape and color.
Ideal for containers or as a border plant, Purple Shamrock thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade. It offers a playful yet sophisticated element, especially when paired with plants that have lighter foliage.
Its delicate, white to pale pink flowers add an additional layer of interest, making it a versatile choice for enhancing your garden’s overall appeal.
8. Ajuga reptans ‘Black Scallop’
Ajuga reptans ‘Black Scallop’ is a low-spreading groundcover known for its glossy, dark leaves and striking blue flower spikes. This perennial not only provides a dramatic visual impact but also serves as an effective solution for weed suppression.
Thriving in both sun and partial shade, ‘Black Scallop’ adapts well to various garden conditions. Its dense foliage and vibrant flowers make it perfect for adding texture and color to garden beds or borders.
Plant it alongside other perennials for a layered garden look, ensuring your outdoor space remains vibrant and captivating throughout the seasons.
9. Coleus ‘Black Velvet’
Coleus ‘Black Velvet’ is a tropical perennial admired for its rich, velvety foliage that borders on ebony. The plant’s deep color and lush texture make it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to create bold accents in their landscapes.
This hardy plant thrives in both sun and shade, offering flexibility in placement and design. Its striking appearance complements various garden styles, from modern to classic.
Use ‘Black Velvet’ as a centerpiece in containers or as a focal point in garden beds to draw the eye and add sophistication to your outdoor space.
10. Coleus ‘Dark Knight’
Coleus ‘Dark Knight’ features deep, almost black leaves with subtle red undertones, creating a captivating display in any garden setting. This perennial is perfect for adding a touch of drama and intrigue with its rich, dark colors.
The plant thrives in dappled sunlight, making it well-suited for garden beds and containers alike. Its unique coloration pairs beautifully with plants that have lighter foliage or brightly colored blooms, enhancing the overall design of your garden.
‘Dark Knight’ requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking both beauty and ease.
11. Coleus ‘Dark Crimson’
Coleus ‘Dark Crimson’ offers dark, nearly black leaves with a hint of crimson, perfect for an edgy, modern garden design. This perennial’s bold coloration provides a stunning contrast against lighter plants and flowers.
Ideal for containers or garden beds, ‘Dark Crimson’ thrives in partial shade, adding depth and sophistication to outdoor spaces. Its low maintenance requirements make it a practical choice for gardeners seeking to enhance their gardens with minimal effort.
Pair it with brightly colored blooms or lighter foliage to create a striking visual display that commands attention and admiration.
12. Hosta ‘Blackout’
Hosta ‘Blackout’ is a nearly black hosta cultivar that creates a dramatic focal point in shady garden areas. Its dark foliage provides an impressive contrast against lighter hostas, enhancing the visual depth of your landscape design.
This perennial thrives in rich, well-drained soil, offering a low-maintenance yet stunning option for garden enthusiasts. The plant’s broad leaves add texture and interest, making it a perfect centerpiece for shaded beds or border plantings.
Pair it with lighter-colored companions for an eye-catching contrast that highlights the unique beauty of ‘Blackout’.
13. Purple Saxifrage (Saxifraga oppositifolia)
Purple Saxifrage, or Saxifraga oppositifolia, is a hardy, low-growing groundcover with naturally dark, purple-hued foliage and delicate blooms. This perennial is ideal for adding color and texture to rock gardens or alpine settings.
Its tough nature allows it to thrive in challenging conditions, making it a resilient choice for gardeners. The small, vibrant flowers add a splash of color to its dark leaves, creating a visually striking contrast.
Plant it in clusters for a more dramatic effect or use it as a border plant to enhance the depth and beauty of your garden design.
14. Purple Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’)
Purple Fountain Grass, or Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum’, features dark, almost black stems and foliage with a dramatic, cascading habit. This ornamental grass adds movement and elegance to any garden setting.
Thriving in full sun, Purple Fountain Grass is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners. Its graceful form and rich color contrast beautifully with lighter plants, creating a stunning visual effect.
Use it as a focal point in garden beds or as a standalone accent to enhance the overall design and sophistication of your landscape.
15. Helleborus niger (Black Hellebore)
Helleborus niger, commonly known as Black Hellebore, is winter-blooming with glossy, dark foliage and elegant white flowers that emerge in late winter. This perennial adds a touch of elegance and interest to shaded garden corners.
Its early bloom period provides much-needed color and life during the dreary months, making it a valued addition to any landscape. The dark leaves and contrasting blooms create a striking visual impact, enhancing the beauty and depth of your garden.
Plant it with other shade-loving perennials to create a harmonious and captivating winter garden display.
16. Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Black Pearl’
Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Black Pearl’ is a variant of mondo grass with glossy, nearly black leaves that form a dense, elegant mat. This perennial is perfect for adding texture and depth to garden landscapes.
Thrive in both sun and shade, ‘Black Pearl’ offers versatility in garden design. Its rich, dark foliage contrasts beautifully with lighter plants, making it an excellent choice for borders or as a groundcover.
Use it to create a bold statement in your garden, enhancing the overall aesthetics and providing a lush, sophisticated look that captivates and inspires.
17. Taro ‘Black Magic’
Taro ‘Black Magic’ showcases mesmerizing leaves that appear as if crafted from deep purple velvet. Its stunning, broad foliage is perfect for creating an exotic touch in any garden setting.
When the morning dew settles on its expansive leaves, they glimmer mysteriously, adding an alluring charm. These plants thrive in moist, shaded areas, mimicking their tropical origins.
Consider planting them near water features to amplify their dramatic effect. Regular watering and a humid environment keep this perennial at its best. With the right care, Taro ‘Black Magic’ can be a standout centerpiece in your garden arrangement.
18. Ligularia ‘Britt Marie Crawford’
Ligularia ‘Britt Marie Crawford’ is a striking perennial with glossy, dark chocolate foliage. This plant adds a sophisticated touch to any garden with its bold appearance.
During mid-summer, the dark leaves serve as a dramatic backdrop for bright orange-yellow daisy-like flowers. Perfect for partially shaded areas, it prefers moist, well-drained soil.
As it matures, its robust structure becomes increasingly defined, creating a vivid focal point. The contrast between the foliage and flowers brings an element of surprise and excitement, keeping your garden both dynamic and visually intriguing.
19. Canna ‘Australia’
Canna ‘Australia’ captivates with its dark burgundy leaves that contrast beautifully against its vivid scarlet flowers. A tropical beauty, this perennial is ideal for gardeners looking to add height and color.
These plants thrive in full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Regular feeding ensures lush growth and prolific blooming. To enhance its visual appeal, pair it with lighter-toned plants for a stunning garden display.
Its resilience and dramatic color make Canna ‘Australia’ not only a visual delight but also a robust addition to garden enthusiasts seeking vibrancy.
20. Angelica gigas
Angelica gigas enthralls with its towering stature and dark, purplish umbels that resemble delicate lacework. This perennial adds vertical interest and elegance to garden landscapes.
Not only does it attract butterflies, but its architectural beauty also makes it a natural focal point. Preferring partial shade and moist soil, Angelica gigas flourishes when planted in groups.
Allowing it to self-seed can contribute to an effortlessly enchanting garden atmosphere. This plant’s dramatic presence and seasonal blooms make it a cherished addition for those desiring unique garden aesthetics.
21. Black Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Magic’)
Black Elephant Ear, scientifically known as Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Magic’, brings an exotic flavor with its bold, glossy, blackish-purple leaves. The plant’s large foliage captivates with its lush texture and dramatic appearance.
Ideal for planting near water features, it thrives in sunny or partially shaded locations. Its immense leaves create a striking focal point, often becoming a conversation starter. Regular watering and rich soil conditions keep this perennial thriving.
Black Elephant Ear adds a tropical allure while providing a sense of mystery and intrigue, perfect for adventurous gardeners.
22. Persicaria microcephala ‘Red Dragon’
Persicaria microcephala ‘Red Dragon’ showcases intricate, dark burgundy leaves with distinctive red veining, making it a garden favorite. This perennial is celebrated for its low-maintenance nature and adaptability.
Flourishing in well-drained soil with partial to full sun, it’s a perfect choice for borders or mass plantings. The plant’s unique foliage adds depth and interest, creating dynamic visual appeal.
As seasons change, the leaves may exhibit subtle color variations, enhancing its allure. ‘Red Dragon’ combines elegance with resilience, making it an indispensable choice for garden enthusiasts seeking diversity.
23. Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’
Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’ is renowned for its striking, dark rosettes that resemble black roses. This succulent perennial thrives in well-drained, sandy soils, making it ideal for rock gardens or container planting.
Its rich color and sculptural form add a modern touch, perfect for minimalist garden designs. With sufficient sunlight, the foliage deepens in color, amplifying its dramatic effect.
While it requires minimal maintenance, occasional watering during dry spells keeps it healthy. Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’ is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, offering garden enthusiasts a unique, low-maintenance option.
24. Sedum ‘Xenox’
Sedum ‘Xenox’ offers a delightful combination of dark, chocolaty foliage and soft pink flowers. This perennial succulent is known for its drought tolerance, making it a practical yet beautiful choice.
for rock gardens or sunny borders, it thrives with minimal care. The contrast between its foliage and flowers adds a playful twist, providing year-round interest. As autumn approaches, the leaves may darken further, enhancing its visual appeal.
Sedum ‘Xenox’ is ideal for those seeking a blend of practicality and aesthetic charm, effortlessly elevating garden landscapes.
25. Eupatorium rugosum ‘Chocolate’
Eupatorium rugosum ‘Chocolate’ enchants with its dark, chocolate-colored leaves and contrasting white flower clusters. This perennial excels in adding texture and depth to shady garden areas.
Its robust nature and tall stature create a sense of grandeur, making it a prominent choice for borders. Preferring moist, fertile soil, its maintenance is straightforward. As the flowers bloom, they attract pollinators, enhancing the garden’s ecosystem.
Eupatorium ‘Chocolate’ is perfect for gardeners seeking a harmonious blend of elegance and ecological benefit, offering both beauty and biodiversity to garden spaces.