Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus · Warm-season, perennial, evergreen monocot (not a true grass)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Grass Category
Ornamental and ground cover
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 6 to 10 with good heat tolerance and winter evergreen behavior in milder climates
About This Grass
Forms low-growing tufts reaching 2 to 4 inches in height with a dense, fine-textured dark green appearance and occasional pale lilac flowers followed by blue berries
Blade Characteristics
Narrow, strap-like, leathery dark green leaves with blunt or tapered tips and parallel veins, lacking traditional grass ligules and auricles
Growing Information
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and rhizomatous, forming dense, dark green mats that spread slowly via underground runners
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in partial shade to full shade with moderate, regular moisture and well-draining, humus-rich acidic soil
Mowing & Maintenance
Requires virtually no mowing, very low maintenance, and occasional trimming of damaged leaf tips in spring if needed