Contents
Description
Ophiopogon Intermedius is a herbaceous perennial plant native to East Asia. It is commonly known as the Dwarf Lilyturf, intermediate fountain grass or the Mondo grass. The plant grows in dense clumps and spreads through rhizomes. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, growing up to 25 cm long and 1 cm wide. They are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The plant produces small violet flowers in summer, followed by dark blue berries in autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Ophiopogon |
Appearance
Ophiopogon Intermedius is a small plant, typically growing up to 20-30 cm tall and spreading up to 30-45 cm wide. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, growing up to 25 cm long and 1 cm wide. They are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The plant produces small violet flowers in summer, followed by dark blue berries in autumn. The roots are rhizomatous and fibrous, allowing the plant to spread and form dense clumps.
Care Guide
Water: Ophiopogon Intermedius prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 5.5-7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: Ophiopogon Intermedius prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ophiopogon Intermedius is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is consistently waterlogged. Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can infest the plant. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests.
Habitat
Ophiopogon Intermedius is native to East Asia, specifically China, Japan, and Korea. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It is commonly used as a groundcover in landscaping and is also grown as a container plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ophiopogon Intermedius be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, indirect light location.
Q: Does Ophiopogon Intermedius require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning but can be trimmed to remove dead leaves or to control its size.
Q: How often should Ophiopogon Intermedius be divided?
A: The plant can be divided every 3-4 years in early spring.
Q: Is Ophiopogon Intermedius poisonous?
A: The plant is not toxic to humans or pets.
Related Plants
- Ophiopogon japonicus
- Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’
- Ophiopogon tuberous
- Ophiopogon bodinieri
References
- “Ophiopogon Intermedius.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c311.
- “Ophiopogon Intermedius.” Plant Care Today, 18 Jan. 2019, plantcaretoday.com/ophiopogon-intermedius-care.
- “Dwarf Mondo Grass – Ophiopogon Intermedius.” Dave’s Garden, 25 Oct. 2004, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/64257/.
