Siberian lily, Mondo grass
ophiopogon jaburan
Also known as: ["Dwarf Lilyturf","Japanese lilyturf"]
Overview
A perennial evergreen plant with grass-like foliage and small, bell-shaped flowers followed by blue-black berries.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Ophiopogon |
| Botanical Name: | Ophiopogon jaburan |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: ground cover in shaded garden beds or as an ornamental in containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; major division every 2–3 years to rejuvenate the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless dividing the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); tolerates full sun with adequate water; prefers filtered light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy soils with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–85°F or 15–29°C); can tolerate light frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
monthly during growing season (spring to summer), every 2 months otherwise
Fertilize less frequently in winter; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of clumps or root cuttings; division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into smaller sections with roots attached.
- Plant divisions at the same depth as the parent plant.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Not necessary for division; rooting hormone can be used for root cuttings but is optional.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: 4–6 weeks for roots to develop.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or spade, gloves, pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Divide in early spring for best results; ensure each division has healthy roots and foliage; water gently after planting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim individual leaves with clean shears; divide clumps for larger-scale rejuvenation.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and encourage new growth; thin overcrowded clumps to improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Remove only dead or damaged foliage; use clean tools to prevent disease; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter) with good drainage.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; overcrowded roots can stunt growth.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter to improve structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or wilting during extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback if prolonged below freezing.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; protect from frost with a cover.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially if watered inadequately.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation to reduce heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOphiopogon jaburan is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOphiopogon jaburan is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOphiopogon jaburan is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ophiopogon jaburan toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate low light conditions.
Q: How fast does Ophiopogon jaburan grow?
A: It grows moderately slowly, spreading via underground rhizomes over time.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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