Mondo Grass
Ophiopogon japonicus
Also listed as Convallaria japonica, Liriope gracilis
Also known as Dwarf Lilyturf, Snake's-beard, Lily Turf Grass
Climate Match for your location
See how well Mondo Grass grows in your area.
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A fine-textured, deep green evergreen groundcover that forms dense low mats. Ideal for edging, under trees, or as a lawn alternative in shaded areas.
Why grow it
Mondo grass tolerates deeper shade than most groundcover alternatives and requires minimal maintenance once established. It spreads more slowly than aggressive lawn substitutes, making it suitable for small, defined areas or mixed plantings where containment matters. The fine texture provides visual softness at ground level while handling foot traffic better than delicate shade perennials.
Watch out for
Mondo grass prefers consistent moisture during its first growing season and may thin or brown during prolonged drought, even in shade. Slugs and snails can damage foliage in wet climates, and poorly drained soils increase susceptibility to root rot. Growth is slow, so establishing full coverage typically takes one to two years from transplants.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Asparagaceae
Native Range
Japan, China, Southeast Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A fine-textured, deep green evergreen groundcover that forms dense low mats. Ideal for edging, under trees, or as a lawn alternative in shaded areas.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Mondo Grass grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Mondo grass tolerates deeper shade than most groundcover alternatives and requires minimal maintenance once established. It spreads more slowly than aggressive lawn substitutes, making it suitable for small, defined areas or mixed plantings where containment matters. The fine texture provides visual softness at ground level while handling foot traffic better than delicate shade perennials.
Watch out for
Mondo grass prefers consistent moisture during its first growing season and may thin or brown during prolonged drought, even in shade. Slugs and snails can damage foliage in wet climates, and poorly drained soils increase susceptibility to root rot. Growth is slow, so establishing full coverage typically takes one to two years from transplants.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Asparagaceae
Native Range
Japan, China, Southeast Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Ground cover
Low spreading plants that carpet the soil.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
pH Range
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar ground covers you might consider:
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