Mondo Grass Growing Guide

What is Mondo Grass?

Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus) is a clump forming perennial. It is part of the Liliaceae or lily family and is native to Japan. Mondo Grass is available in different sizes such as tall and dwarf. It is used as a ground cover or edging plant and spreads through the use of rhizomes or tuberous roots. The foliage is strappy and grass like and depending on the variety can come in the colours of green, dark green, black or variegated. During Summer tiny racemes holding white or lilac flowers appear. Mondo Grass prefers a part shade to full sun position in the garden that has well drained soil. They should not be planted in full afternoon sun as the leaf tips will burn. They are frost tolerant and require little water once established.

Benefits of Growing Mondo Grass

Mondo Grass is a hardy plant and requires low care. They look amazing when planted en masse as a ground cover and to fill in gapes in and around pathways. They also look good when planted  under trees, in front of borders as edging plants and grown in pots.

How to Grow Mondo Grass

Black Mondo

Climatic Zones

Cool to tropical.

Plant Size

Dwarf Varieties Height: 10cm, Width: 10-15cm

Tall Varieties Height: 30cm, Width: 10-15cm

When To Plant Mondo Grass

Plant in Spring.

Soil Preparation

They grow in any soil type, however prefers moist and well-drained soil.

How To Plant Mondo Grass

Plant in part shade to full sun with protection from afternoon sun, 10cm apart with the plant crown at soil level.

Mondo Grass Plant Care

They need regular water during dry conditions.

Add some organic fertiliser in Spring or Summer can improve the colour and appearance of the plant.

Watch out for snails.