Species

10 other cultivars

groundcover

Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass

The Story

Plant Bio

Ophiopogon japonicus, known as Mondo Grass, is a low-growing perennial with dense, grass-like foliage and small, bell-shaped flowers that are typically white or pale purple, forming a neat, clumping habit.

This dwarf cultivar, 'Fuiri Gyoku Ryu', features very fine, dark green leaves variegated with creamy-white stripes or edges. It forms a dense, slow-spreading mat, making it an excellent groundcover.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen structure with attractive purple foliage, ideal for shaded areas.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, suitable for difficult soils.

Supports beneficial insects and ground cover for erosion control.

SpeciesOphiopogon japonicusMondo Grass

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

3 inches

Width

8 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Summer – Late fall

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divide clumps in early spring for propagation.
Plant in well-drained soil with partial shade for best growth.
Water regularly during first growing season, then drought tolerant.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
Prune dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture
Divide every few years to control spread
Prune dead leaves regularly

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Plant in heavy clay without amendment ❌
Use chemical fertilizers excessively ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shady garden borderErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Heucheras

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass questions

What zones can Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass grow in?

Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass deer resistant?

Yes — Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass bloom?

Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass typically blooms in summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass need full sun?

Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Variegated Dwarf Mondo Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.