A tough evergreen strappy-leaf groundcover forming a dense carpet of fine dark-green grassy foliage. A hard-wearing, low-care lawn alternative for shade and a favourite for pathways and edges.
At a glance
- Plant type: Ornamental grass
- Mature size: 15 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus is an slow-growing ornamental grass in the Asparagaceae family. It reaches around 15 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White and purple flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Mondo Grass
Mondo Grass suits subtropical, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and shade and low-light positions. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Mondo Grass does best in clay and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Mondo Grass is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Mondo Grass after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Mondo Grass in the garden
Mondo Grass earns its place for a low lawn alternative, holding soil on banks and slopes and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Mondo Grass with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Mondo Grass
Plant Sale lists Mondo Grass as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.