Species

Ophiopogon japonicusMondo Grass

9 other cultivars

groundcover

Comet Mondo Grass

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Comet'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Comet' is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with fine, grass-like foliage and slender, upright flower spikes bearing small, bell-shaped white flowers.

This cultivar is distinguished by its dense, compact growth habit and its bright, grass-green foliage that creates a striking ground cover in shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen groundcover with graceful, grass-like foliage that softens shaded areas.

Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, ideal for shaded landscapes.

Supports local pollinators and adds biodiversity to shaded garden zones.

SpeciesOphiopogon japonicusMondo Grass

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency.
Mist cuttings or divisions to propagate in spring or fall.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Prune back any dead or damaged foliage in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best color and growth, avoid overly wet soils.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune dead foliage in early spring ❌
Apply mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
Use heavy, clay soil that retains too much moisture

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with delicate, grass-like textureGroundcover under trees or shrubs

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Heuchera AstilbeJapanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Comet Mondo Grass questions

What zones can Comet Mondo Grass grow in?

Comet 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 Comet Mondo Grass deer resistant?

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

When does Comet Mondo Grass bloom?

Comet Mondo Grass typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Comet Mondo Grass need full sun?

Comet Mondo Grass does best in part shade.

Is Comet Mondo Grass drought tolerant?

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