types of mondo grass

What is Mondo Grass?

Mondo grass (Ophiopogon spp.) is a tufted, clumping perennial, not a true grass, but closely related to lilies. Its strappy, arching leaves and tiny, delicate flowers make it a favourite in both formal and informal garden designs. Some varieties are renowned for their glossy, deep green leaves, while others offer distinctive silver or black foliage that brings contrast and drama to your garden beds.

Popular Types of Mondo Grass in New Zealand

With several distinct types of mondo grass available, it's easy to find one that suits your garden's style and conditions. Here are some of the top choices:

Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass)

If you're after a variety with a striking, silvery sheen, Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass) is an excellent option. Known for its fine, pale silvery-green foliage, Silver Mist creates a soft, shimmering effect, ideal for brightening shady areas or weaving into mixed plantings for texture contrast. It's drought tolerant and thrives in both full shade and part sun.

Ophiopogon japonicus

The classic mondo grass, Ophiopogon japonicus, features lush, dark green leaves that form dense clumps, providing year-round ground cover. It’s exceptionally resilient and commonly used to define garden paths or as a living mulch beneath trees and shrubs.

Ophiopogon Kyoto

Looking for an elegant, low-growing border plant? Ophiopogon Kyoto has beautiful, finer-textured green leaves that create neat, compact mounds. This variety is a popular pick for Japanese-style gardens and narrow edging along paths or garden beds.

Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens

For gardeners wanting bolder foliage, Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens offers striking, jet-black leaves. Sometimes called 'black mondo grass,' this cultivar is a real standout in both pots and gardens, creating contrast with lighter coloured perennials or gravel mulches.

Ophiopogon Black Dragon

Another dark-leafed option, Ophiopogon Black Dragon, features very deep purple-black foliage, giving an exotic look to shady corners or contemporary planting schemes. Its colour intensifies in cooler weather, making it a great choice for year-round interest.

Choosing the Best Mondo Grass for Your Garden

When selecting from the various types of mondo grass, consider your preferred foliage colour, mature plant height, and the light conditions in your garden. Most types of mondo grass thrive in well-drained soil and are tolerant of dry spells once established, making them exceptionally easy-care. Whether you want to create a subtle carpet of green or add a dramatic accent plant, there’s a type of mondo grass to suit every space.

Ready to enhance your landscape? Browse our range of Ophiopogon Silver Mist (Silver Mondo Grass), Ophiopogon japonicus, Ophiopogon Kyoto, Ophiopogon japonicus nigrescens, and Ophiopogon Black Dragon to find the perfect groundcover for your garden.