Ophiopogon japonicus
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Mondo Grass
| Evergreen-Deciduous | Evergreen |
|---|---|
| Overall Mature Size | Small |
| Mature Height & Spread | 6-12" x 6-9" |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Full To Partial Shade |
| Water | Medium Water |
| Flower Color | Purple |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Special Features | Coastal Conditions, Deer Resistant |
| Container Sizes | #1 |
| Natural Growth Habit | Spreading |
| Sunset Garden Zones | 5-9, 14-24 |
| Minimum USDA Hardiness Zone | 6-11 |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
Ophiopogon japonicas commonly known as Mondo Grass is an evergreen perennial. Mondo Grass is actually a member of the lily family despite its appearance and common name. The slender leaves of ophiopogon japonicas grow from 2-12 inches long. They are somewhat rigid and curve back toward the ground. They resemble blades of turf grass and emerge in clumps. With age the clumps merge to form soft dense carpet-like foliage. Mondo Grass produces small light purple flowers in summer. These flowers are of little interest mostly because they are hidden in the dense foliage. The small blue-black berries that follow are mostly hidden as well.
Mondo Grass resembles another plant that is a grass-like member of the lily family: liriope. Unlike liriope the flower stalks of mondo grass are hidden within the mass of foliage rather than above the foliage. Mondo Grass blades are also noticeably thinner than those of liriope. There are several dwarf varieties of mondo grass available as well.
