Ophiopogon, also known as Mondo grass, is a hardy, evergreen plant that is perfect for gardens in full sun to partial shade. It is known for its long, strap-like leaves that are often variegated with white, green, or cream-colored stripes. Ophiopogon is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 2 feet in height and 2 feet in width. It is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Is it easy to grow Ophiopogon plant? When it comes to gardening, not all plants are created equal. Some are very difficult to grow, while others are very easy. Ophiopogon is a plant that falls into the latter category. These versatile and hardy plants are very easy to grow, and they make a great addition to any garden.
How big can it be? So, the plant will have basal tufts of lance-shaped, the leaves are about 20 cm long, and the erect, flowering stems can grow up to 50 cm in height. The small, tubular flowers are borne in dense, terminal spikes, and they are usually white or pale lilac in color. After the flowers fade, round, black berries appear.
How fast is the growth? So, the best time to plant this groundcover is in the spring or fall. Ophiopogon groundcover likes full sun to partial shade and grows 6-12 inches tall with a 12-18 inch spread. This groundcover is good for slopes, mass plantings, and as an edging plant.
| Plant Form | Herbaceous |
| Family | Lileaceae |
| Origin | From Japan to the Himalayas |
How long is the lifespan? Because they are a plant that lives more than one year, they are easy to take care of. When taken care of properly, they will last many years.
What is the ideal temperature? Because it is a tropical plant, it needs high temperatures to feel comfortable. In the summer, the temperature should be around 64-68 degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter, it is desirable to keep the plant at a temperature of not below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
What about the humidity? The reason it's important to maintain high humidity for this plant is because it's from tropical regions. In its natural environment, it would be constantly exposed to mist from waterfalls or rain. Try to recreate these conditions by setting your plant on a pebble tray, grouping it with other plants, or running a humidifier near it.
What amount of light this plant needed? If you have a spot in your home that is quite sunny throughout the day, this is the perfect plant for you. The Ophiopogon loves bright, diffused light and will do best near a western or eastern window. If you have a plant that is quite shade-tolerant, the Ophiopogon is a great choice, as it will still bloom weakly, even in the shade.
What is good soil for Ophiopogon? known as Mondo grass, this plant is not too demanding when it comes to the composition of the soil. A good mix for this plant would be 1 part sod land, 1 part coarse-grained sand or perlite, 1 part leaf land, and 1 part humus earth. The pH level for this type of soil should be 6.8-7.7. This plant also requires good drainage and a pot with a hole.
How much I must water Ophiopogon? Unless the Ophiopogon is getting enough water, the leaves will turn brown and dry out. The soil should be moist but not soggy, and it's best to water in the morning so the plant has time to dry out before nightfall. The substrate should dry slightly between waterings (to a depth of about 2.5 cm), but do not dry completely. The lower the temperature, the less needs to be watered. In winter, reduce watering to a minimum.
About fertilizer. Unless the plant is actively growing, it does not need fertilizer. Feed every 2-3 weeks during the period of growth and flowering fertilizer with high potassium and soderzhniem fosora. Stop fertilizing after flowering.
How to reproduce Ophiopogon? The best time to propagate by seed is in March. Before planting the seeds, soak them in water for 24 hours. Ophiopogon is most often propagated in spring by dividing the bush. For the first time, new separated plants are kept in the shade and watered poorly. Young plants bloom usually on the 2-3rd year.
Why Ophiopogon won't bloom? Eventually, the white or purple-violet inflorescences that first bloom in July-August will give way to blue berries.
How much I must water Ophiopogon? Sometimes, Ophiopogon plant is transferred every year in the spring. The Ophiopogon will grow and cover the entire surface if the substrate.
How to care the plant? Eventually, the leaves of an Ophiopogon plant will wilt and die. It's important to remove these in a timely manner, as well as any old brown leaves. Doing so will help the plant to maintain a neat appearance. It's also important to avoid drafts, as the plant does not tolerate them well.
What is the challenge when caring Ophiopogon plant? known that it is unpretentious and can grow in any conditions. But, like any plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. For example, spider mites, aphids, thrips and scale insects. But if you follow some simple rules, the plant is sick quite rarely.
Are Ophiopogon poisonous? The Ophiopogon plant is a flowering plant that is native to China. The plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is now grown in many parts of the world. The plant is toxic to humans and animals and can cause severe gastrointestinal problems if ingested. The plant is also known to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people.
