Ophiopogon

2 products

Ophiopogon Plants (Mondo Grass)

Evergreen Mondo Grass for Year-Round Colour, Texture & Ground Cover

Ophiopogon, commonly known as Mondo Grass, is a versatile evergreen perennial prized for its elegant, grass-like foliage and neat clump-forming habit. From the dramatic black leaves of Ophiopogon nigrescens (Black Mondo Grass) to the rich green foliage of other varieties, Ophiopogon adds texture, contrast and year-round interest to borders, pathways, rockeries and containers.

Easy to grow and exceptionally low maintenance, Mondo Grass is ideal for creating attractive ground cover, edging paths or softening planting schemes. Many varieties also produce delicate bell-shaped flowers in summer, followed by decorative berries that add further seasonal appeal.

Why Choose Ophiopogon (Mondo Grass)?

Ophiopogon is one of the finest evergreen foliage plants for adding contrast and structure to the garden.

Benefits include:

  • Evergreen foliage for year-round interest
  • Excellent ground cover
  • Neat, clump-forming growth
  • Ideal for borders, edging and containers
  • Low-maintenance and easy to grow
  • Hardy throughout the UK
  • Suitable for sun or shade
  • Attractive flowers and ornamental berries

Whether you're looking to create bold contrast or soften the edges of planting schemes, Ophiopogon offers lasting beauty throughout every season.

Seasonal Interest

While primarily grown for its attractive foliage, Ophiopogon also provides seasonal flowers and berries.

Many varieties produce:

  • Small white, pale pink or lilac flowers during summer
  • Decorative blue or black berries in late summer and autumn
  • Attractive evergreen foliage throughout the year

The foliage remains an important feature long after flowering has finished.

Where to Grow Ophiopogon

Ophiopogon is incredibly versatile and grows well in a variety of garden settings.

Ideal locations include:

  • Front of borders
  • Woodland gardens
  • Gravel gardens
  • Rockeries
  • Path edging
  • Under trees and shrubs
  • Patio containers
  • Courtyards

Its compact habit makes it perfect for both small gardens and larger landscaping projects.

Soil Requirements

Ophiopogon performs best in:

  • Moist but well-drained soil
  • Loam
  • Sandy soils
  • Free-draining clay
  • Humus-rich soils

Avoid prolonged waterlogging, particularly during winter.

Watering & Feeding

Water regularly during the first growing season while plants establish.

Once established, Ophiopogon is relatively drought tolerant, although occasional watering during prolonged dry spells will help maintain healthy growth.

Apply a balanced fertiliser or mulch with compost each spring to encourage fresh new foliage.

Pruning & Maintenance

Ophiopogon requires very little maintenance.

For the best results:

  • Remove any damaged or weathered foliage in late winter or early spring.
  • Divide mature clumps every few years if they become overcrowded or to create new plants.
  • Apply mulch annually to improve soil and retain moisture.

Perfect Plant Combinations

Ophiopogon combines beautifully with Hostas, Heucheras, Ferns, Hakonechloa, Carex, Euphorbia 'Ascot Rainbow' and Japanese Maples, where its elegant foliage provides beautiful contrast and texture. Black Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon nigrescens) looks particularly striking planted alongside silver, lime-green or variegated foliage, while green varieties soften borders and make excellent edging plants. Ophiopogon also works wonderfully in woodland gardens, contemporary landscapes and container displays.

Ophiopogon (Mondo Grass) FAQs

What is the common name for Ophiopogon?

Ophiopogon is commonly known as Mondo Grass, while Ophiopogon nigrescens is widely known as Black Mondo Grass because of its distinctive dark foliage.

Is Ophiopogon evergreen?

Yes. Ophiopogon is an evergreen perennial, providing attractive foliage and structure throughout the year.

Does Ophiopogon prefer sun or shade?

Ophiopogon grows well in full sun, partial shade or full shade, although most varieties perform best in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.

Is Ophiopogon hardy?

Yes. Ophiopogon is fully hardy throughout most of the UK and returns year after year with very little maintenance.

Does Ophiopogon spread?

Ophiopogon forms neat clumps that slowly increase in size over time. It is easy to divide every few years if you wish to create additional plants.

Buy Ophiopogon (Mondo Grass) Plants Online

Ophiopogon, or Mondo Grass, is an outstanding evergreen perennial for adding year-round texture, colour and structure to the garden. Whether you choose the dramatic foliage of Black Mondo Grass or a classic green variety, these easy-care plants are perfect for borders, edging, woodland gardens and containers.

Browse our collection of Ophiopogon plants today and discover how this versatile evergreen can bring lasting elegance and contrast to your outdoor space.