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ophiopogon jap nana

If you're searching for a compact, hardy groundcover with elegant foliage, ophiopogon jap nana (Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nana', also known as Mini Mondo Grass) is an outstanding solution. This miniature variety of mondo grass is perfect for New Zealand gardens, effortlessly blending versatility and beauty in borders, underplantings, or even as a living mulch between pavers. With its dense tufted leaves and neat appearance, ophiopogon jap nana brings subtle lushness to shaded spots, requiring little maintenance and thriving despite varied weather conditions.

Ophiopogon japonicus Nana

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nana' is a dwarf or mini Mondo Grass grown for its delicate, dark green foliage. Flower spikes are borne in summer and bear tiny, lilac flowers, which are followed by blue-black berries as it grows to 15 cm tall and 20 cm wide. Ophiopogon japonicus' Nana' is best showcased with a mass planting and is commonly added to rock gardens, used in borders, grown as a ground cover, planted between pavers, or used around outdoor living areas. It can also be maintained in a container.

Ophiopogon japonicus nana (dwarf Mondo grass) growing between paving stones.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Grasses
  • Height:
    15 cm
  • Spread:
    20 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Tolerances:
    Hardy
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
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Ophiopogon japonicus Nana

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Why Choose Ophiopogon jap nana?

Gardeners love ophiopogon jap nana for its ability to create a flawless, low-growing carpet that stands up to foot traffic and keeps weeds at bay. Its evergreen foliage stays vibrant year-round, turning dull areas beneath trees or along paths into lush, green features. As a dwarf variety, Mini Mondo Grass reaches around 10cm high, making it the ultimate choice for small gardens, container planting, or as a soft edging for flower beds.

If your garden needs a tough, attractive groundcover that tolerates shade and drought once established, ophiopogon jap nana hits the mark. Whether planting en masse, filling gaps between stepping stones, or curating a modern landscape, its tidy, spreading habit and resilience are unmatched.

Planting and Care Tips

Ophiopogon jap nana is easy to grow and virtually fuss-free. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and thrives in partial to full shade. Water young plants regularly until established, then enjoy their drought tolerance. Spring is the ideal time to plant, although it adapts to most seasons. Simply space the tufts about 15cm apart for a seamless look, and give them a light trim if needed to tidy up old foliage.

Design Uses and Companions

Mini Mondo Grass is highly prized for its adaptability. Use it as an alternative to traditional lawn in shaded zones, add it beneath shrubs, or frame paths and garden beds. Its compact size and subtle dark green tone provide perfect contrast against flowering perennials or lighter grasses. For landscape diversity, try pairing ophiopogon jap nana with other shade-loving groundcovers such as Ophiopogon japonicus, the larger cousin with similar resilience.

Varieties like Ophiopogon Kyoto and Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass) offer textural and colour variation, while Ophiopogon planiscapus and Ophiopogon Black Dragon bring striking dark foliage for modern, eye-catching plantings. If you’re looking for companions outside the mondo grass family, consider pairing with Hakonechloa macra 'Alboaurea' or Lomandra Katrinus Deluxe for their contrasting textures and leaf colours.

Other great underplanting and edging options include Armeria maritima 'Morning Star Deep Rose' (Thrift), Liriope 'Blue Skies', and Liriope 'Just Right'.

Order Ophiopogon jap nana for Your New Zealand Garden

Add low-maintenance appeal to your landscape with ophiopogon jap nana. This evergreen, mini mondo grass transforms spaces with its tidy habit and versatile use. Explore its companions and related varieties for a garden that stays vibrant all year.


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–The Plant Company

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