Ophiopogon japonicus – Mondo Grass; Dwarf Lilyturf

A grass-like plant with flat, dark-green leaves. At first glance, most would assume this plant was a type of grass, but patience is key with this flowering ground cover. From July to September plants bear small, pale lilac flowers on nodding stems, followed by clusters of blue berries in fall. Mondo Grass spreads slowly to form a dense, evergreen sod that is neat, attractive and requires little maintenance. Serves admirably as a ground cover, tolerating foot traffic, and even preventing some of the more stubborn weeds from seeding. Very useful as a lawn substitute which requires no mowing. Equally useful as a border plant, an accent, or foundation planting. In warm climates the plant’s best chance at success is with a steady moisture supply and some shade. The root is reported to be edible, with varying reports as to the degree of bitterness, and is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Plant in nearly full sun to dappled shade. In full sun plants perform best when there is shade available during the hottest times of the day. Requires moist to wet soils and can tolerate growing in water. Tolerates most soil types and conditions.