Mondo Grass

Often called "Monkey Grass," mondo is cold-hardy, great anywhere in South Florida. It's the slowest growing of these grass like plants and takes sun or shade though it seems happiest in a location with some afternoon shade.

Add top soil (or organic peat humus) and composted cow manure to the hole when you plant. Mondo will grow together rather than in separate mounds, so place plants about 8 to 12 inches apart. No trimming is needed. Water regularly (see each variety for specifics). Fertilize 3 times a year with a quality granular fertilizer.

The regular variety grows about 12" tall. Dwarf mondo grass only grows to 6" tall. (A newer shade-loving cultivar is the striking black mondo grass with black leaves and pink flowers.) Mondo is very tough, very tenacious once you plant it, it'll be there pretty much forever. It has a tendency to wander and spread, and makes a good groundcover. However, if it goes where you don't want it, it's very hard to remove, so plan the area well. Regular irrigation is a must but with enough time for the plant to dry out a bit between watering’s. If mondo grass is left to go too dry, the tips of the deep green leaves will turn brown and, because they're so long-lasting, you'll see the unattractive error of your ways for a long time.