Family:  Variously reported as Liliaceae, Convallaricaceae, and Asparagaceae.  For all practical purposes, one of the lily-like perennial monocots that the taxonomists will argue about indefinitely but is, itself.

Hardy to Zones 6 to 11

(Mai-dong, Dwarf Lilyturf, Mondo Grass) Handsome perennial evergreen monocot groundcover native to China and the Philippines, growing to 1 foot tall, flowering white giving way to bright blue berries, with tuberous roots, which are the part used in TCM.  Plant prefers sun to part shade and moist, relatively fertile soils.  Not a true grass, this plant is closer to asparagus.  These are easy to grow, and work exceptionally well along trails and pathways where they may be planted to the side and interspersed with rocks to mark the path.  Traditional use (TCM) of the dried roots and tubers: one of the main tonifying herbs said to nourish the stomach yin, often combined in multi-herb formulae for treatment of dry conditions–cough, sore throat, etc.  The herb has an antibacterial influence, clears heat, quiets irritability.  Space 1 foot apart.

Potted plant as pictured, certified organically grown