How to grow ophiopogon

Ophiopogon is also known as lilyturf and mondo grass. It's a grass-like perennial that spreads by rhizomes into a carpet of tufted, narrow, evergreen leaves. Small, white flowers appear in summer, followed by black berries in autumn, but the foliage is the main feature.

The most popular varieties of ophiopogon are the dramatic-looking black cultivars. They're a good option for ground cover in a partially shady spot, and are also useful in container displays and the underplanting of trees and shrubs. The foliage contrasts well with other low-growing perennials or bulbs like cyclamen and snowdrops.

Where to grow ophiopogon

Grow ophiopogon in moist, but well-drained soil. It does best in slightly acidic, fertile, humus-rich soil typical of semi-shady woodland areas. Choose a spot in full sun or partial shade. The black foliage varieties will darken more in a sunny location.

When to plant ophiopogon

Ophiopogon is best planted in spring so plants need less watering and are well established before winter.

How to plant ophiopogon

Although ophiopogon will spread, if you're planting up an area under a tree or in a container, use several plants to get an immediate effect. Add a little leaf mould or a handful of ericaceous compost and mix well before planting, firming in and watering.

How to care for ophiopogon

Ophiopogon is easy to care for in the UK, with no need to cut plants back. In spring, simply remove dead and damaged foliage. Once established, mondo grass is generally fairly drought-resistant and should only need watering in dry periods in the first year.

Ophiopogon is hardy in most parts of the UK, but it will benefit from a mulch in winter, particularly in cold areas. Plants are slow-growing and will spread over a long period of time.

How to propagate ophiopogon

Propagate ophiopogon by dividing in spring as the plant comes into growth. Simply dig up and pull apart the plant to create new ones.

Pests and diseases

Ophiopogon does not suffer from diseases, but slugs may be attracted to new spring growth.

Ophiopogon varieties to grow

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Kokuryū', previously known as 'Nigrescens', is the most popular cultivar. It's also known as ‘Black Dragon’, ‘Ebony Knight’, or ‘Arabicus’. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it the Award of Garden Merit (AGM). Height x Spread: 20cm x 30cm

• Buy Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Kokuryū' from RHS Plants

Ophiopogon 'Black Beard' is another dark variety, but slightly taller, growing to 25cm. Flowers are white with a flush or purple, followed by berries in autumn. H x S: 25cm x 50cm

• Buy Ophiopogon 'Black Beard' from Gardeners' Dream

Ophiopogon japonicus 'Minor' is a very compact form of ophiopogon. The leaves are evergreen, growing to 10cm, and the flowers are pale lilac. H x S: 10cm x 50cm

• Buy Ophiopogon japonicus 'Minor' from Knoll Gardens

Ophiopogon planiscapus has evergreen foliage that makes good ground cover. It suits full sun or dry shade. White flowers appear in summer, followed by blue berries. H x S: 20cm x 30cm

• Buy Ophiopogon planiscapus from Knoll Gardens

Frequently asked questions

Will ophiopogon grow in shade?

Ophiopogon is good for humus-rich soil in partial shade. It works well in dappled shade under deciduous trees and looks fantastic planted alongside late winter- and spring-flowering bulbs.

Does ophiopogon spread?

Ophiopogon will spread if it’s in ideal conditions, but only relatively slowly, so it shouldn't be a problem. If plants spread into unsuitable areas, simply dig them up and replant elsewhere.