Ophiopogon Japonicus (Dwarf LilyturfMondo Grass)

Overview: Popular as Dwarf Lily Turf or Mondo Grass, this is a beautiful perennial plant suitable to grow in terrariums. Ophiopogon japonicus is native to East Asia and hails from the Asparagaceae family. The growth habit of Mondo grass is low and is usually used as a ground cover plant in gardens and even as a border plant. This stunning ornamental plant is known for its tufted appearance and elegant, textured look. At the same time, being easy to care for makes it suitable for beginners as well.

Appearance: Ophiopogon japonicus features thin strap-like leaves that are dark green in color. The leaves have a glossy appearance. In some varieties, you may also find variegated leaves with light green or white margins. Under proper soil and humid conditions, this plant may grow up to 10 to 12 inches in height with the same spread. In this way, it becomes an ideal one for a terrarium. While it is usually grown for foliage, you may also witness stunning blooms in late summer that are white or lavender in color, small, and bell-shaped.

Light requirements: Ophiopogon japonicus prefers partial to full shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight as well but only for some time. When exposed for long, mondo grass may get stressed and when light is less, the foliage may become leggy. Placing the terrarium in areas where filtered light is coming will be the best for it to survive.

Soil requirements: While Ophiopogon japonicus is not very particular about the soil, it will be best to plant it in a well-draining one. Until the soil drains well, it doesn't matter whether it is loamy, sandy or even clay type. It is advised to use good quality pot mix that has perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Humidity: Moderate humidity works pretty well for Mondo Grass; however, it will survive in low humidity as well. When planted indoors, misting the plant in winter season and especially when the air is dry helps to maintain moderate humidity level. Since when Ophiopogon japonicus is grown in terrarium, the enclosed glass container retains humidity as required and sustains the plant growth.

Watering: Watering Ophiopogon japonicus regularly but avoiding waterlogging situations is very important for it to perform well. You should water the soil only when it feels dry to touch. Also, there should be proper drainage in the terrarium to avoid root rot.

Air circulation: Make sure there is proper air circulation in the glass container as it is the only way to prevent fungal issues. Excessive humid and water stagnant conditions must be avoided at all cost. If growing it in a container or terrarium, ensure that there is enough ventilation to prevent mold or mildew buildup.

Trimming: Since Ophiopogon japonicus grows slow, trimming is not a necessity. However, you may need to remove the dead and brown leaves occasionally so that the plant looks neat and tidy in the terrarium. While trimming is not important, grooming the plant to maintain its shape is important.

Other requirements: Fertilize Ophiopogon japonicus once in a while with liquid fertilizers to encourage growth. It can be done in the spring season or early summer. Heavy fertilization may do more harm than help. Additionally, Mondo Grass generally doesn't need to be repotted frequently. If grown in containers, it can remain in the same pot for a few years, though repotting every 2-3 years may be needed if the plant becomes root-bound.