Species dwarf lilyturf
narrow, green, spear-like, shiny blades

dwarf lilyturf

Ophiopogon japonicus

The Dwarf Lilyturf (Ophiopogon japonicus) is an evergreen perennial native to Japan. It forms a grass-like carpet of foliage that is a deep, rich green color. In the summer, delicate white and pale mauve bell-shaped flowers appear. This tough groundcover is drought tolerant, thriving in full sun to partial shade and needing less water than other species. A great choice for shade gardens, it's low-maintenance and grows slowly, getting up to 6" tall and spreading up to 18". Though it prefers moist, well-drained soil, it will tolerate clay soils and partial drought. With regular pruning, it can be kept in a neat mounded shape.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

7 - 10

Flowers:

White to lilac Flowers

Sun:

Part shade,full shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Dwarf lilyturf (Ophiopogon japonicus) is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal watering. It should be watered 1-2 times per week to keep the soil slightly moist. During the warmer months, the plant will benefit from an additional dose of water. If applicable, water your dwarf lilyturf in the morning to reduce the likelihood of fungal diseases and to prevent waterlogging. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency to once per week. Make sure to check the soil before watering; if it remains moist and cool to the touch, then do not water.

sunlight

Dwarf lilyturf (Ophiopogon japonicus) is a low-growing, evergreen grass-like perennial that prefers to be grown in areas that have partial shade to full sun. The amount and timing of sunlight that it needs is important for successful cultivation. In general, a minimum of 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal for dwarf lilyturf. This should be spread out throughout the day for ideal growth, with the plant not receiving too much sunlight at once. Morning sunlight is preferable, as that allows for cooler temperatures for the leaf. While the plant can tolerate full sun, it is best to provide some afternoon shade in areas of high temperatures. The amount of sunlight also varies with season. For summer-blooming varieties, full sun is beneficial for flower production and in the winter, the plant should receive some light for protection from extreme temperatures. If grown indoors, indirect or filtered light is ideal and it should be kept away from strong direct sunlight. By understanding the needs and requirements of dwarf lilyturf, it is possible to cultivate the plant successfully to enjoy its beautiful foliage and flowers.

pruning

Dwarf lilyturf (Ophiopogon japonicus) should be pruned from early spring to late summer. It should be pruned to promote a tighter and more compact form, and to encourage new growth. Pruning should be done in amounts that only moderately reduce the overall size. When all new growth has emerged in the spring, trim off any tattered or dead leaves. Trim off a maximum of 1-third of the foliage to maintain the shape and size of the plant. As the growing season progresses, deadhead any faded flowers, and prune off any stems that are growing out of shape. In late summer when growth starts to slow, trim back any extra or excessive growth. Regular pruning of old leaves and flowers can help to prevent disease and will ensure that the dwarf lilyturf looks its best.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Ophiopogon japonicus typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Starts Flowering

Ophiopogon japonicus typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and June.

Hardiness Map