Species

Ophiopogon japonicusMondo Grass

9 other cultivars

groundcover

Tears of Gold Mondo Grass

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tears of Gold'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tears of Gold' is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with dense, grass-like foliage that features striking golden-yellow leaves and small, bell-shaped white flowers in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant golden foliage that provides bright contrast in shaded gardens and its hardy nature, making it ideal for ground cover and edging.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant variegated foliage that brightens shady spots and adds texture.

Suppresses weeds as a dense groundcover, reducing garden maintenance.

Supports local beneficial insects and maintains soil stability in shaded areas.

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

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or small plants into well-drained soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
Apply a light layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide plants every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best foliage color and growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Divide clumps in early spring or fall

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
Refrain from heavy fertilizing which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with variegated foliageGroundcover under treesVanilla-scented shady pathway

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tears of Gold Mondo Grass questions

What zones can Tears of Gold Mondo Grass grow in?

Tears of Gold 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 Tears of Gold Mondo Grass deer resistant?

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

When does Tears of Gold Mondo Grass bloom?

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

Does Tears of Gold Mondo Grass need full sun?

Tears of Gold Mondo Grass does best in part shade.

Is Tears of Gold Mondo Grass drought tolerant?

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