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 a 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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Mondo Grass does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Mondo Grass after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, maintenance 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
Mondo Grass sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered 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. Availability is confirmed when you request a quote; use the panel above to register interest.
