Ophiopogon japonicus (Mondo Grass)

Ophiopogon japonicus, commonly known as Mondo Grass, is a hardy, evergreen, clump-forming ornamental grass valued for its neat, lush foliage and excellent performance as a low-maintenance groundcover. Unlike the dwarf forms, the standard Mondo Grass grows into a larger, fuller clump, making it particularly useful for borders, pathways, mass planting and landscaping.

The narrow, dark-green leaves form attractive dense clumps, creating a clean and elegant appearance throughout the year. Mondo Grass is especially useful for covering bare areas beneath trees, along walkways and garden edges, or in places where a reliable evergreen groundcover is required.

It grows well in partial shade to full shade, although it can tolerate some morning or filtered sunlight. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant and requires little maintenance. It prefers fertile, well-drained soil but is adaptable to a range of garden conditions.

Ophiopogon japonicus spreads slowly by underground rhizomes, gradually forming a dense planting without becoming excessively aggressive. Small, pale lilac to white flowers may appear among the foliage during warmer months, followed by small blue berries.

Plant Details

• Botanical Name: Ophiopogon japonicus
• Common Name: Mondo Grass
• Plant Type: Evergreen perennial groundcover
• Height: Approximately 20–30 cm
• Spread: Approximately 30–45 cm per clump
• Light: Partial shade to full shade; tolerates some sun
• Water: Moderate; relatively drought tolerant once established
• Soil: Adaptable; prefers fertile, well-drained soil
• Flower Colour: Pale lilac to white
• Uses: Groundcover, borders, pathways, under trees, mass planting and landscaping
• Maintenance: Low maintenance

A reliable choice for creating neat, green, evergreen planting with very little upkeep.