Mondo grass (Ophiopogon Spp.), sometimes known as monkey grass is a evergreen perennial herb. Though having a grass like feature, ophiopogon is not a grass, instead it belongs to lily family (Liliaceae) and nearer to Turflily (Liriope). The only difference is, the leaves are narrower than that of Turflily.

Plants are compact grass-like, leaves in dense clumps and normally 12 to 18 inches high, except Black Mondo(O. Planiscapus Nigrescens) which is 4 to 6 inches and Kyoto Dwarf, only 1 to 1½ inches high. Leaves can be either erect or arching. Flowers are from white to purple in drooping clusters.

These hardy houseplants survive in a wide range of conditions and the variegated forms are very attractive. There are 5 species in this genus - O. Jaburan, Silver Dragon (O. Jaburan Variegata), O. Japonicus, Black Dragon (O. Planiscapus Nigrescens) and Kyoto Dwarf (O. japonicus 'Gyoku-ryu').

Mondo grass grows well in bright sun as well as shade. In shade, the leaves tend to get a darker tinge in comparison with plants growing in full sun. Mondo grass can be grown in different adverse soil condition, though it prefers moist well drained soil. Propagation is by division of clumps. Leave at least 10 to 12 leaf in each cluster to help quick root forming. It does not require fertilizing if planted in rich organic soil, however a side dressing of any slow releasing organic compost, like Sterameal or Bonemeal is helpful in summer and monsoon. Do not prune mondo grass ever, only pluck the dead leaves from the clumps. Ophiopogons are almost disease free. Sometimes they get affected by root rot. Heavy soil and/or water logging and fungi is the cause. Make the soil lighter my mixing decayed farm manure or leaf mould. Light spraying of fungicides also helps.

Ophiopogons normally used as ornamental plants in gardening. They grow well in shady areas where normal grass could not be grown like under a tree. Mondos can be used as ground covers, edging or border in both sunny and shady location. The variegated ones normally used as accents in landscaping. It also looks good in contrast with black mondo grass. They are excellent as a rockery plant. Their uses as houseplant are suitable in shallow pots or hanging baskets. Kyoto Dwarf also used in bonsai arrangements.