The black snake beard is not entirely easy to care for, but with its black-green grass-like foliage it is very decorative and somewhat exotic. It comes from Japan and is suitable for Asian gardens as well as for gravel beds or for setting accents.
How do I properly care for my black snake beard?
The care of the black snake beard includes a partially shaded, wind-protected location, humus-rich and permeable soil, regular, moderate watering, monthly fertilization for potted plants and winter protection at temperatures below -10°C.
The right location and the best soil
The black snake beard feels particularly comfortable in partial shade. There it shows its bell-shaped, light purple flowers from June to August. It is best to plant it in a wind-protected place with permeable, humus-rich soil.
Water and fertilize the black snake beard
Since it does not tolerate drought well, you should water your black snake beard regularly. But always water it moderately, because it doesn't tolerate waterlogging either. At this point, maintenance is a little time-consuming. If the black snake's beard is cultivated in a pot or on the balcony, then it needs some liquid fertilizer about once a month (€13.00 on Amazon).
Propagate the black snake beard
In spring you can cut off any frozen leaves during the winter and then divide strong plants of the same size. This is the best way to propagate black snake beard in your own garden. It also reproduces through self-sowing.
The Black Snake Beard in Winter
The black snake beard is only moderately hardy. It can withstand temperatures down to -10 °C for a short time, but winter protection is definitely appropriate. Cover the plant well with a layer of brushwood.
If you expect temperatures to be lower than -10 °C for a longer period of time, then it is better to move your black snake beard to cool winter quarters. This is especially true for plants in pots or balcony boxes, where the roots freeze particularly quickly.
The best care tips for black snake beard:
- Location: partial shade, sheltered from the wind
- Soil: humus and permeable, low in lime
- conditionally hardy to approx. – 10 °C
- water moderately but regularly
- no pruning necessary
- Fertilize potted plants about once a month
Tip
With the almost black foliage of the black snake's beard, you can create wonderful accents in the garden. It is best to place it next to bright, contrasting plants.
