Dwarf Lilyturf

Ophiopogon japonicus (Asparagaceae) is a clumping, sod-forming evergreen groundcover native to Japan, China, and Korea. It grows less than 1 foot tall and spreads slowly by stolons, forming dense mats of narrow, dark green, grass-like leaves. Short racemes of pale lilac to white flowers appear in summer, largely hidden by the foliage, followed by blue berries (5 mm).

Mondo grass thrives in sun to part shade and is highly shade tolerant. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but tolerates drought and even black walnut toxicity (juglone). It is also salt tolerant. Cultivars include 'Nana' (ultra-dwarf, 4 to 5 cm), 'Kyoto Dwarf', 'Silver Mist' (variegated), and 'Compactus'. Deer resistance is high. Maintenance is minimal. Hardy in Zones 6a to 10b.