Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nana’ – Dwarf Mondo Grass (3.5″ Pot)

$11.50

Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nana’, commonly called Dwarf Mondo Grass, features dwarf tufts of dark green, strap-like leaves which spread to form a dense mat.

A tough, durable plant. Prefers cool, moist soil, but allow the top couple of inches to dry between waterings. Dwarf Mondo Grass makes a good lawn substitute. It’s also great for borders or mass planted as a groundcover. Tolerates varying amounts of foot traffic.

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FAQ

What are common uses for Dwarf Mondo Grass?

Dwarf Mondo Grass has several useful applications in Asian, woodland, tropical and contemporary, geometric gardens. Planting dwarf mondo grass in a rock garden or between pavers is especially attractive. The tough roots grow in tight spaces, and are able to compete with other plants. This makes Dwarf Mondo Grass excellent for underplanting shrubs or trees. Other popular applications include front border planting or even mass planting as a lawn alternative.  Dwarf Mondo Grass is one tough sucker, tolerating deer, light foot traffic, sandy soils and even a shady environment. When planted in sunnier areas, the foliage tends to fade to a lighter green color, with darker green showing in shade. Protect from late afternoon sun to prevent burning.

How do I care for Dwarf Mondo Grass?

Dwarf Mondo Grass is a low maintenance perennial that can survive a fair amount of neglect. When planting, loose soil should cover the roots and runners, but make sure to leave the crown exposed. Provide a well-draining soil that is moderately moist, especially during its first year of establishment.  Dwarf Mondo Grass thrives in partial to filtered sunlight, however it will grow in shade. If the foliage looks ragged, trim it back lightly after winter.

What is the difference between Mondo Grass and Dwarf Mondo Grass?

Straight Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus) is much more common in cultivation than the dwarf variety. It reaches an average height from 6-10 inches and spreads to around 15 inches. Also, the rate of growth is much higher.

How tall and wide does Dwarf Mondo Grass get?

Dwarf Mondo grass reaches an average max height from 4-6 inches high, and slowly spreads to around 8 inches.

Does Dwarf Mondo Grass spread?

Dwarf Mondo Grass spreads by underground stolons, or runners, forming dense colonies over time. The growth rate is very slow, taking up to 2-3 years to spread to to around 6 inches. Landscapers often divide the plants to cover more area. This is simply done by teasing apart the roots. When mass planting into a lawn, experts suggest using 4 inch spacing and a staggered grid, as shown below:

Is Dwarf Mondo Grass invasive?

Here, in the Pacific Northwest, Dwarf Mondo Grass is not really considered invasive, spreading at a very low rate. However, in more humid areas of the Southern United States, it spreads much faster, and can grow through turf lawns and other garden plants.

 

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