groundcover

Super Dwarf Mondo Grass

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Super Dwarf'

The Story

Plant Bio

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Super Dwarf' is a low-growing perennial with dense, grass-like foliage and small, bell-shaped flowers that are typically white or pale violet, forming neat, clump-like mounds.

This cultivar is distinguished by its exceptionally compact size, making it ideal for ground cover and edging in small gardens or container plantings.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides evergreen groundcover with fine foliage, ideal for shaded areas.
Practical UsesDrought tolerant and low-maintenance, reducing garden upkeep.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local beneficial insects and maintains soil health.
SpeciesOphiopogon japonicusMondo Grass

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

4 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Early fall

J
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In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or plant divisions into well-drained soil
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil
  3. Place in partial shade to avoid scorching
  4. Mulch lightly to retain moisture
  5. Maintain evenly moist soil during establishment
  6. Expect growth in 6 weeks

Pro Tip

Use well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
  • Mulch to conserve moisture
  • Prune dead foliage in early spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
  • Refrain from heavy fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded groundcoverLow-maintenance border

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas HeucheraJapanese forest grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Super Dwarf Mondo Grass questions

What zones can Super Dwarf Mondo Grass grow in?

Super Dwarf Mondo Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Super Dwarf Mondo Grass deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Super Dwarf Mondo Grass, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Super Dwarf Mondo Grass bloom?

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

Does Super Dwarf Mondo Grass need full sun?

Super Dwarf Mondo Grass does best in part shade.

Is Super Dwarf Mondo Grass drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Super 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.