The Story
Plant Bio
Ophiopogon japonicus, commonly known as mondo grass, is a perennial ground cover that features narrow, arching leaves.
This species is notable for its ability to tolerate shade and is often used as an ornamental ground cover in low-light areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 2 inches tall in late spring.
- Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture during summer.
- Water regularly during dry periods for optimal growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil is well-draining to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not expose to full, harsh sunlight in extremely hot regions
- Skip fertilizing in winter
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mondo Grass questions
What zones can Mondo Grass grow in?
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 Mondo Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Mondo Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mondo Grass bloom?
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 Mondo Grass need full sun?
Mondo Grass does best in part shade.
Is Mondo Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), 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

Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon nigrescens

Gyoku Ryu Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Gyoku Ryu'

Nigrescens Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'

Niger Black Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Niger'

Tuff Tuft Silver
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Tuff Tuft Silver'

Super Dwarf Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Super Dwarf'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow 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.










