Ophiopogon chingii, commonly known as Contorted Mondo Grass, is an evergreen perennial herb, inaccurately described as a grass, native to forest understories and shaded grasslands in Southeastern China. This low-growing plant typically forms dense clumps up to 6 inches tall, with a spread of 8-12 inches. Its distinctive feature is the curly, dark green foliage that provides unique texture in garden settings. In the summer, Ophiopogon chingii produces small, bell-shaped, white to pale lilac flowers on short racemes, followed by attractive neon blue berries that persist into fall, adding seasonal interest.

Contorted Mondo Grass is valued for its ornamental foliage and berries, as well as its ability to thrive in shaded conditions where other plants may struggle. It is ideal for Japanese-style gardens, rock gardens, and as ground cover or underplanting in shaded borders. It requires well-drained soil, consistent moisture without waterlogging, and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While generally low-maintenance, it can suffer from crown rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is not known to be invasive and does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for a variety of garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0