Species

Ophiopogon planiscapusBlack Mondo Grass

6 other cultivars

groundcover

Variegated Mondo Grass

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Haku ryu Ko'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Haku ryu Ko' is a low-growing, evergreen perennial with arching, narrow foliage that is strikingly variegated with white and green stripes, forming dense ground cover. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers and black berries.

This cultivar is distinguished by its variegated foliage with a striking white and green pattern, adding a unique ornamental touch to shaded garden areas and landscape borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen foliage with striking purple hues, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Drought-tolerant and adaptable to wet soils, reducing maintenance needs.

Supports insects and adds ground cover to prevent soil erosion.

SpeciesOphiopogon planiscapusBlack Mondo 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

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to pets and humans

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil
Water thoroughly after planting and keep moist for 2 weeks
Mist cuttings regularly to encourage rooting
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Monitor for pests and remove affected foliage promptly

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best foliage color and growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead foliage in late winter

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Do not expose to full sun in hot climates
Don't neglect pest monitoring

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 rock gardenSilver-foliaged border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Variegated Mondo Grass questions

What zones can Variegated Mondo Grass grow in?

Variegated 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 Variegated Mondo Grass deer resistant?

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

When does Variegated Mondo Grass bloom?

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

Does Variegated Mondo Grass need full sun?

Variegated Mondo Grass does best in part shade.

Is Variegated Mondo Grass drought tolerant?

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