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ophiopogon planiscapus nz

Looking for a hardy, elegant grass to add texture and contrast to your New Zealand garden? Ophiopogon planiscapus, often known as Dwarf Lilyturf or Mondo Grass, is a standout choice. Perfect for low-maintenance borders, groundcover, and dramatic underplanting, this versatile plant thrives in a wide range of NZ conditions. Whether used en masse for a contemporary look or dotted between stepping stones, Ophiopogon planiscapus nz brings year-round interest with its fine, strap-shaped leaves and subtle summer flowers.

Ophiopogon planiscapus

Ophiopogon planiscapus, commonly known as Dwarf Lilyturf, is a Mondo grass grown for its fine, dark green foliage and short stature. The foliage is complemented with flower spikes in summer, which bear tiny, lilac flowers as it grows to 20 cm tall and 30 cm wide. Ophiopogon planiscapus is best showcased in mass plantings and is commonly added to rock gardens, used in borders, grown as a ground cover, planted around outdoor living areas, or simply maintained in a container.

Ophiopogon planiscapus (Mondo Grass) with lush green foliage growing as a ground cover.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Grasses
  • Height:
    20 cm
  • Spread:
    30 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
Ophiopogon japonicus (Green Mondo Grass) growing as a groundcover in a woodland garden.
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Ophiopogon japonicus

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Ophiopogon 'Kyoto' (Dwarf Mondo grass) growing between paving stones.
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Ophiopogon japonicus nana (dwarf Mondo grass) growing between paving stones.
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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...

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Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass)

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Ophiopogon 'Black Dragon' (Black Mondo) grass plant.
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Ophiopogon planiscapus

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Why Grow Ophiopogon planiscapus in NZ?

Ophiopogon planiscapus nz is prized for its adaptability and neat habit. With arching, deeply green foliage, it makes a striking edging or accent plant in city or coastal gardens, shady undertrees, or even containers. This mondo grass spreads slowly via underground rhizomes, forming lush, carpet-like mats that keep weeds at bay and offer a clean, tidy appearance all year long.

Appearance and Features

Typical Ophiopogon planiscapus nz forms low clumps about 20–30cm high, with slender leaves that cascade gracefully. In summer, delicate spikes of pale lilac, bell-shaped flowers appear, followed by small, blue-black berries. Its evergreen nature means you’ll enjoy rich green foliage even through winter. The Dwarf Lilyturf looks stunning spilling over paths, between pavers, or combined with silver-leaved or dark-foliaged companions.

How to Grow and Care for Ophiopogon planiscapus nz

This tough grass is a favourite in New Zealand for both beginners and landscape professionals. Ophiopogon planiscapus thrives in full sun to full shade and is tolerant of a variety of soils, provided they drain well. Water to establish, but once settled in, this plant handles dry spells with ease. For best performance, add compost at planting, fertilise in spring, and trim back tired or old foliage.

If you enjoy the textured, modern look of Ophiopogon planiscapus nz, consider pairing it with other reliable grasses such as Ophiopogon japonicus, known for its dense, tufted habit, or Ophiopogon japonicus Nana, a compact option ideal for small spaces or mass planting. For a bold twist, Ophiopogon Black Dragon offers striking dark foliage, while Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass) brings a shimmering contrast to rockeries or borders.

Design Ideas for Ophiopogon planiscapus

Ophiopogon planiscapus nz is a key player in contemporary and traditional NZ gardens. Use it to edge garden beds or pathways, underplant trees where grass struggles, or partner with other ornamental grasses like Poa anceps (Broad-leaved Poa), Cyperus involucratus and Scirpus ferrugineus. Layering Ophiopogon varieties, such as Ophiopogon Kyoto, adds depth and subtle shifts in colour and form.

For shade gardens, Japanese-inspired spaces, or urban courtyard planting, Ophiopogon planiscapus offers effortless structure and beauty with virtually no fuss.

Buy Ophiopogon planiscapus in NZ

We supply quality Ophiopogon planiscapus for NZ gardeners, ready to establish and flourish in your landscape. Explore related varieties like Ophiopogon japonicus, Ophiopogon japonicus Nana, and Ophiopogon Black Dragon to enhance your garden palette with texture and evergreen appeal.


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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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