Mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Mondo grass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Mondo grass
Ophiopogon japonicus, also known as Dwarf Lilyturf or Mondo Grass, is a low-growing perennial that forms dense clumps of slender, dark green leaves. Its grass-like appearance makes it ideal for edging, groundcover, or as an ornamental plant in rock gardens. It's excellent for creating contrasting textures in the garden or in pots.
Native range
East Asia (Japan, Korea, China)
Care tips
It prefers partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun if the soil is kept moist. Regular watering is required to keep the substrate consistently moist, especially in hot and dry climates. It thrives in well-drained, organically rich soils. A common mistake is planting it in waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Mondo grass
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting leaves, stunted growth, bare patches in the lawn.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If waterlogged, remove and correct substrate. If dry, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, causing root rot. Also, prolonged drought and intense direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted. Act quickly by correcting watering and drainage.