How to Grow, Propagate, Harvest, and Use Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)

Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus) is a versatile evergreen ground cover prized for its lush, grass-like foliage, low maintenance needs, and adaptability to a wide range of landscapes. Despite its name, mondo grass is not a true grass but a member of the asparagus family. This ornamental plant is widely used in gardens, borders, and even culinary and medicinal traditions in parts of Asia.

This comprehensive guide covers how to grow mondo grass, propagation methods, popular varieties, harvesting tips, landscape and practical uses, and food-related applications, making it a complete resource for gardeners and plant enthusiasts.

What Is Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)?

Mondo grass is a perennial evergreen plant native to East Asia, particularly Japan, China, and Korea. It forms dense clumps of narrow, arching leaves and spreads slowly, making it an excellent choice for ground cover and erosion control.

Key Characteristics

Botanical name: Ophiopogon japonicus
Growth habit: Clump-forming, spreading
Height: 4–12 inches
Width: Up to 24 inches
Foliage: Dark green, strap-like leaves
Flowers: Small, pale lavender to white blooms
Berries: Blue to purple (ornamental)

How to Grow Mondo Grass Successfully

Ideal Growing Conditions

Mondo grass is valued for its adaptability, but optimal conditions ensure lush and healthy growth.

Light Requirements

Thrives in partial shade to full shade
Tolerates full sun in cooler climates with adequate moisture
Deep shade may slow growth but will not kill the plant

Soil Preferences

Well-draining soil is essential
Prefers loamy or sandy soil rich in organic matter
Tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH

Watering Needs

Water regularly during establishment
Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant
Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot

Temperature and Climate

Hardy in USDA zones 6–10
Evergreen in mild climates
Cold-hardy but may experience leaf browning in extreme frost

Fertilizing and Maintenance

Mondo grass requires minimal care, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Trim damaged or browned leaves in late winter or early spring
Divide clumps every 3–4 years to rejuvenate growth

How to Propagate Mondo Grass

Propagation is simple and best done through division.

Propagation by Division (Best Method)

Dig up a mature clump in spring or early fall
Gently separate the root mass into smaller sections
Ensure each division has healthy roots and foliage
Replant at the same depth and water thoroughly

Propagation by Seed (Less Common)

Seeds develop from mature berries
Clean and sow seeds in moist soil
Germination is slow and inconsistent
Seed propagation is rarely used for home gardens

Popular Varieties of Mondo Grass

Different cultivars offer variations in size, color, and growth habit.

Common Mondo Grass

Standard variety
Medium growth rate
Ideal for borders and pathways

Dwarf Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nana’)

Compact, low-growing form
Reaches only 2–4 inches tall
Excellent for edging and rock gardens

Black Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’)

Deep purple to black foliage
Dramatic contrast in modern landscapes
Slightly slower growth than green varieties

Harvesting Mondo Grass

Mondo grass is not typically harvested like edible crops, but parts of the plant have traditional uses.

When to Harvest

Roots are harvested in late fall after plant maturity
Harvest only mature plants that are well established

How to Harvest

Carefully dig around the plant to expose roots
Remove only a portion of roots to avoid killing the plant
Wash thoroughly and dry if used for traditional purposes

Uses of Mondo Grass

Landscaping and Ornamental Uses

Ground cover for shaded areas
Lawn alternative in low-traffic spaces
Border edging along walkways
Underplanting for trees and shrubs
Erosion control on slopes

Indoor and Container Use

Suitable for pots and containers
Works well in shaded patios
Can be grown indoors with indirect light

Food and Traditional Uses of Mondo Grass

While mondo grass leaves are not edible, the roots (tubers) of Ophiopogon japonicus have long-standing traditional uses.

Traditional Culinary and Herbal Use

The dried root, known as “Mai Men Dong” in traditional Asian practices
Used in herbal infusions and decoctions
Often combined with other ingredients rather than consumed alone
Valued for its naturally mild, slightly sweet taste

⚠️ Important Note:
Mondo grass roots should only be consumed when properly prepared and traditionally sourced. Not all ornamental varieties are suitable for consumption, and improper use can cause digestive discomfort.

Common Problems and Solutions

Yellowing Leaves

Caused by overwatering or poor drainage
Improve soil drainage and reduce watering

Slow Growth

Often due to deep shade or nutrient-poor soil
Add organic compost and ensure moderate light

Pests and Diseases

Generally pest-resistant
Occasionally affected by slugs or snails
Root rot may occur in waterlogged soil

Benefits of Growing Mondo Grass

Low maintenance and long-lived
Evergreen year-round interest
Excellent shade tolerance
Non-invasive growth habit
Adds texture and elegance to landscapes

Final Thoughts

Mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus) is a reliable, attractive, and multifunctional plant suitable for gardeners of all experience levels. Whether you’re looking to enhance shaded landscapes, explore traditional root uses, or simply enjoy a durable ground cover, mondo grass offers exceptional value with minimal effort.

With proper planting, occasional maintenance, and thoughtful use, this versatile plant can thrive for decades and elevate both outdoor and indoor spaces.

More information

Common Name	Snake’s Beard, Dwarf lilyturf, Mondo Grass, Monkey Grass, Dwarf Lilyturf
Family	Convallariaceae
USDA hardiness	7-11
Known Hazards	None known
Habitats	Damp ground in shady places in lowland and foothills. Forests, dense scrub in ravines, moist and shady places on slopes and along streams, cliffs at elevations of 200 – 2800 m in China.
Range	E. Asia – China, Japan, Korea.
Edibility Rating	(2 of 5)
Other Uses	(2 of 5)
Weed Potential	No
Medicinal Rating	(3 of 5)
Care (info)

How to grow Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)

How to Grow, Propagate, Harvest, and Use Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)