Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Dwarf'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
3 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Ophiopogon japonicus, commonly known as Mondo Grass, is a low-growing, grass-like perennial with dense, fine-textured foliage and small, bell-shaped flowers that are typically white or pale lilac, forming a neat ground cover. The Dwarf cultivar is distinguished by its compact size and slow growth, making it ideal for small gardens and container planting, while maintaining the lush, evergreen appearance typical of the species.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil
- Water thoroughly after planting for 2 weeks
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Divide every 3-4 years for best growth
Pro Tip
Prefers shaded areas but tolerates some sun, ensure soil is well-drained.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to heavy, direct sunlight in hot climates
- Avoid heavy fertilization that can cause legginess
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
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 early summer through late summer. 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
Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Gyoku Ryu'
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'
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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.
