Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Super Dwarf’
Overview
Uses: Ultra-low groundcover between stepping stones, along walkways, in rock gardens, courtyard plantings, bonsai accents, small shaded containers
Benefits: Exceptionally compact evergreen foliage forms a dense, refined carpet that remains extremely low without mowing. Strong shade tolerance and humidity resistance maintain a crisp, polished appearance year-round.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 6–10
Sun: Partial Sun/Shade to Heavy Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Clumping, Groundcover — tight tufts spread slowly by short rhizomes.
Foliage Color: Deep Green
Mature Height: 1.5–2 inches
Mature Width: 3–5 inches
Growth Rate: Slow
Summary
‘Super Dwarf’ is grown for precision-scale planting where even an inch of height matters. Its finely textured, deep green foliage forms an exceptionally low, sculpted carpet that feels deliberate and refined.
This miniature selection remains noticeably shorter than standard dwarf forms, making it ideal for stepping-stone pathways, Japanese-inspired gardens, and detailed courtyard spaces. The tight, tufted growth habit keeps plantings crisp and controlled without appearing coarse or overgrown.
For gardeners seeking permanent structure in shaded or partially shaded spaces, ‘Super Dwarf’ offers disciplined growth, evergreen presence, and long-term reliability.
Care
Super Dwarf Mondo Grass Care
Plant in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Best performance occurs in partial to full shade, especially in warmer climates.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings while avoiding prolonged saturation.
Feed lightly in early spring with a slow release fertilizer to encourage steady, even growth.
Little maintenance is required beyond removing debris or lightly trimming in late winter if necessary.
Container Growing Notes
When grown in containers, use a well-draining potting mix and ensure adequate drainage holes. Container-grown plants require closer moisture monitoring, particularly during warm weather.
Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is Super Dwarf Mondo Grass for Sale Online?
Plants ship in greenhouse grow pots sized appropriately for their stage of development. If you have specific questions about current sizing or availability, please contact us.
How Large Does Super Dwarf Mondo Grass Grow?
At maturity, this variety forms an extremely low mound approximately 1.5–2 inches tall and 3–5 inches wide, spreading slowly to create a dense, uniform groundcover.
Additional Information
What makes ‘Super Dwarf’ different from other mondo grasses?
‘Super Dwarf’ remains significantly shorter and more compact than standard dwarf selections such as ‘Nana’, making it especially useful in tight or detail-oriented plantings.
Is it evergreen?
Yes. In Zones 6–10, it maintains its deep green foliage throughout the year, providing consistent structure in shaded gardens.
Can it be planted between stepping stones?
Yes. Its extremely low growth habit makes it well suited for planting between stepping stones and pavers where only light foot traffic occurs. Explore more options in our Groundcovers collection.
What are some common names for this plant?
Ophiopogon japonicus is commonly known as mondo grass and is sometimes referred to as midget mondo grass in dwarf forms.
