Species

Ophiopogon japonicusMondo Grass

9 other cultivars

groundcover

Japanese Mondo Grass

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Aritaki'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Aritaki' is a low-growing, grass-like perennial with dense clumps of narrow, dark green foliage and small, bell-shaped, white flowers that appear in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its compact form and exceptional tolerance to shade, making it ideal for ground cover in darker garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, evergreen foliage year-round, ideal for shaded areas.

Low water needs once established, prevents soil erosion.

Supports local beneficial insects and maintains ground cover.

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

Humidity

Prefers average humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan, China

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Summer – Late spring

In flower about 11 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes into well-draining soil in partial shade.
Mist cuttings or divide clumps every 2-3 years.
Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Remove dead leaves in early spring to encourage new growth.
Monitor for pests and diseases, treat organically if needed.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining soil with partial shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds
Divide every 2-3 years to control spread
Remove dead foliage in early spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Don’t place in full sun, it may scorch
Don’t disturb roots excessively
Avoid heavy fertilization

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with textured foliageEvergreen groundcover under trees

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Mondo Grass questions

What zones can Japanese Mondo Grass grow in?

Japanese 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 Japanese Mondo Grass deer resistant?

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

When does Japanese Mondo Grass bloom?

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

Does Japanese Mondo Grass need full sun?

Japanese Mondo Grass does best in part shade.

Is Japanese Mondo Grass drought tolerant?

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