Mondo Grass

Mondo Grass

About 40 species of evergreen, tuft-forming perennials make up this genus, which occurs in woodland in E Asia, especially in China and Japan. Several species are grown for their grass-like foliage, violet to white flowers, and mostly blue or black fruits. Ophiopogon japonicus is especially attractive as groundcover and edging. It is widely used in landscaping in Australia and Hawaii. As an herb Ophiopogon japonicus contains substances that "replenish vital essence and promote secretion of body fluids". It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a yin tonic since the first century CE.

Evergreen perennial, with large, underground stolons, tuberous roots, and linear, arching leaves, 20-40cm (8-16in) long. Small white to pale lilac, bell-shaped flowers appear in racemes, 5-8cm (2-3in) long in summer, followed by blue berries.

Common Name:

Mondo Grass

Other Names:

Lilyturf

Botanical Name:

Ophiopogon japonicus

Genus:

Ophiopogon

Family:

Convallariaceae

Location:

Japan

Cultivation:

Rich, moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.

Propagation:

By seed sown when ripe, by division in spring.

Harvest:

Tubers are lifted in spring and dried for use in decoctions.

Height:

20-30cm (8-12in)

:Width

30cm (12in)

Variations:

Compactus
Is dense and dwarf.
Height: 5cm (2in)

Minor
Is compact with black-green, curled leaves.
Height: 8cm (3in)

Hardiness:

Z6-10

Parts Used:

Tubers (mai men dong)

Properties:

A sweet, soothing, sedative herb that controls coughs, and lubricates the digestive and bronchial tracts.

Medicinal Uses:

Internally for dry coughs, fevers, thirst, dry constipation, insomnia, anxiety, and palpitations. Often mixed with cinnabar (mercuric sulphide) to increase sedation.

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