Ophiopogon japonicus

mondograssfull
(Photo by Marcel Smith)

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Taxonomy (2)

Classification: Angiosperm, monocot
Family: Liliaceae
Common name: Mondo grass, lily turf, snakebeard

General Information (1,2)

Region of Origin: Japan, Korea
USDA Plants Hardiness Zones: 7-11 

  • Size: 1 foot
  • Deciduous/Evergreen: Evergreen
  • Flowering: Summer

Diagnostic Characteristics

Leaves (2)

  • Shape: Blade
  • Other: 2-12 inches

Flower (2)

  • Color: Light purple

Fruit (2)

  • Fruit type: Berry
  • Color: Blue-black

Horticultural Information (1,2)

  • Light: Partial sun to shade
  • Maintenance: Easy to care for
  • Landscape Uses: Groundcover, edge of walkways

References

1) Brickell, C., & American Horticultural Society. (2003). American Horticultural Society encyclopedia of gardening (Rev. US ed., Rev. & expanded ed.). London; New York: DK.
2) Sheper, J. (2003).  Ophiopogon japonicas. Floridata. April 1, 2013, from http://www.floridata.com/ref/o/ophi_jap.cfm. 

Prepared by Marcel Smith as a course requirement for BIOL 3630/5630, Spring 2013
Edited by Jessica Bartek