Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)

Mondo Grass

Ophiopogon japonicus

Linear leaves 20 – 40 cm long. An excellent lawn substitute where grass will not grow.

Partial shade
Shade
Sun
Leaves 20 – 40 cm

Scientific name: Ophiopogon japonicus
Family: Asparagaceae
Height: Leaves 20 – 40 cm
Light: Partial shade, Shade, Sun
Flower: White to pale lilac; 5 mm blue berries
Origin: Japan

Description

Mondo Grass is a clump-forming perennial. Its leaves are linear, 20 to 40 cm long. White to pale lilac flowers appear in a short raceme on a 5 to 10 cm stem, followed by blue berries about 5 mm across.

It spreads by stolons with tuberous roots, allowing it to fill in and cover the ground. It is an excellent substitute for lawn where grass will not grow, especially in shade.

Uses:ground cover, shade plants, landscaping projects

Care

Light: partial shade and shade; tolerates sun in mild climates.
Climate: tropical and warm.
Watering: regular until established.
Maintenance: minimal; no mowing required.

Real photos

Photos from our farm

Frequently asked questions

Does Mondo Grass flower?

Yes, small white to pale lilac flowers in short racemes, followed by blue berries about 5 mm across.

More about Mondo Grass

Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus) is a clump-forming perennial native to Japan that creates a dense carpet of dark green, linear leaves. It is the traditional ground cover of Japanese gardens and one of the best lawn alternatives for shady areas.

All about Mondo Grass