Product Description
Ophiopogon japonicus Bare Root Plants
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.