Commonly called mondo grass, Ophiopogon Japonicus is an evergreen, tuberous-rooted, rhizomatous, perennial of the lily family. It typically forms an arching clump of 8-12” tall and as wide or narrow, linear, grass-like, dark green leaves (each leaf to 8-15” long and 3/16” wide).  Foliage is similar to that of Liriope (also in the lily family), but leaves are narrower and more refined.

Small, 6-tepals, bell-shaped, white to lilac-tinted flowers (1/4” wide) bloom in summer in short racemes (2-3” long) atop leafless stalks. Flowers are followed by spherical, pea-sized, blue-black berries (1/4” across). Flowers and fruits are usually partially hidden by the foliage. This plant is ornamentally grown for its tufts of grass-like leaves.

Noted for its attractive green foliage, Mondo grass forms dense tufts of arching strap-shaped grass-like, dark green leaves. Racemes of small, lilac flowers emerge amid the leaves in summer before giving way to berry-like fruits. Reminiscent of liriope, this popular evergreen grass is tough, durable, compact, and perfect for adding texture to the garden.

It is a traditional ground cover used in Japanese gardens, as well it works wonderfully in concrete geometric layouts in contemporary gardens. Pleasing to senses as it ripples in the wind, this evergreen perennial grass is perfect for shady areas.