Mondo Grass: The Low-Key Legend of the Garden

Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon) is one of those plants that quietly gets on with the job. No drama. No diva behaviour. Just tidy, evergreen goodness that makes gardens look finished — even when the rest of the place is still a work in progress.

Whether you’re after a clean border, a lush groundcover, or something that won’t throw a tantrum if you forget to water it for a bit, mondo grass is a seriously solid choice.

You’ll most often see it used for:

• Garden edging
• Underplanting trees
• Filling gaps between pavers
• Low-maintenance lawns (yes, really)

And once it’s established? It mostly looks after itself.

Popular Types of Mondo Grass

Dwarf Mondo Grass

The go-to for tidy borders and lawn-style planting. It stays low, dense, and looks amazing planted en masse.

Standard (Green) Mondo Grass

Slightly taller and looser, perfect for under trees, shaded banks, and garden edges. Explore Ophiopogon Kyoto or Ophiopogon Japonica Nana. 

Black Mondo Grass

Dark, almost black foliage that looks stunning next to lighter plants or concrete. Slightly slower growing, but worth the wait. Explore our Ophiopogon Short Black or Ophiopogon Black Dragon

Where Mondo Grass Works Best

• Along pathways and driveways
• Under trees where lawns fail
• In modern landscapes for clean lines
• Between pavers and stepping stones
• As a low-water alternative to lawn areas

Basically, if you’ve got a tricky spot and don’t want to fight it — mondo grass is your friend.

How to Plant and Care for Mondo Grass

Soil: Well-drained soil is best, but mondo is forgiving.
Sun: Full shade to part sun (black mondo prefers more sun for best colour).
Water: Regular watering while establishing, then only during long dry spells.
Spacing: Plant 20–30cm apart for quicker coverage.
Maintenance: Trim off old leaves once a year if needed. That’s it.

No feeding schedules. No weekly mowing. No stress.

Is Mondo Grass Right for Your Garden?

If you want:
✔ A tidy, evergreen look
✔ A plant that doesn’t sulk in shade
✔ Low effort, high reward landscaping
✔ Something that looks good year-round

Then yes — mondo grass is an excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mondo Grass

Does mondo grass spread?
Yes, slowly. It forms clumps that gradually fill in without becoming invasive.

Can mondo grass replace a lawn?
Dwarf mondo can work as a low-traffic lawn alternative, especially in shaded areas.

Is mondo grass frost hardy?
Yes — it handles frost well and stays evergreen through winter.

Does it need mowing?
Nope. That’s one of its biggest selling points.