Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Gyoku Ryu'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
2 inches
Width
4 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
An evergreen, grass-like ground cover that spreads by rhizomes to form dense colonies. Valued for its fine-textured foliage. A very dwarf, slow-spreading cultivar that forms a dense, dark green, moss-like mat of foliage. It is one of the smallest mondo grass varieties available.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Plant in partial shade for optimal foliage color and health.
- Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged during the first year.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to promote vigor.
Pro Tip
Use a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds around the plants.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Provide filtered sunlight for vibrant foliage
- Apply organic fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
- Refrain from disturbing roots during dormancy
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Dwarf Mondo Grass questions
What zones can Dwarf Mondo Grass grow in?
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 Dwarf Mondo Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Dwarf Mondo Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Dwarf Mondo Grass bloom?
Dwarf Mondo Grass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dwarf Mondo Grass need full sun?
Dwarf Mondo Grass does best in part shade.
Is Dwarf Mondo Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Dwarf Mondo Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Ophiopogon to compare
Tuff Tuft Silver
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tuff Tuft Silver'
Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger'
Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'
Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon nigrescens
Super Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Super Dwarf'
Tuff Tuft Lavender Ophiopogon
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tuff Tuft Lavender'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Dwarf Mondo Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
