Product Description
Ophiopogon japonicus (2.5-inch pot)
Mondo Grass, monkey grass
- Height: 6-8 Inches
- Hardiness Zone: 6-10
- Full Sun to Shade (Part Shade to Shade - Zones 7-10)
- Evergreen
- Spreads quickly
Ophiopogon japonicus, commonly known as mondo grass, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial plant that is native to Asia. It is a member of the lily family (Liliaceae) and is closely related to the hosta.
Mondo grass has narrow, grass-like 1/8" wide leaf blades that are dark green in color. The leaves are arranged in a fan-like pattern and can grow up to 12 inches long. The flowers are small and white or lilac-colored and appear in summer.
Mondo grass prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. The plant is not particularly drought-tolerant, so it is important to water it regularly during the summer months.
Mondo grass is a popular choice for groundcover, as it can tolerate foot traffic and is relatively easy to care for. It is also a good choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers. Perfect for erosion control on banks, slopes and contained large bed plantings. Ophiopogon japonicus spreads rapidly by underground stolons, it can be invasive in some areas.
The name "mondo grass" is derived from the Japanese word "mondo," which means "dragon's beard." The plant is sometimes called "monkey grass" because the leaves resemble the tail of a monkey.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
