Ophiopogon jaburan

Sunset

Zones 5-9, 14-31, H1, H2

Full, Partial

Moderate

Giant Lily Turf
Liliaceae
Evergreen, Perennials

OPHIOPOGON

These grasslike Asian natives are slightly less cold-hardy than their close cousins Liriope. They are easy to grow, requiring little more than well-drained soil and protection from snails and slugs. Good as informal ground cover in small areas, along paths, or in rock gardens. Attractive when planted in large sweeps in areas where lawns don’t succeed, such as under trees. They also do well in containers. Grow them for their lush, evergreen foliage; the summer flowers, borne on short spikes, are largely hidden by the leaves.

It’s easy to obtain more plants by division. Use a sharp spade to divide clumps in early spring; or use a knife to divide clumps sold in flats or cell-packs at garden centers.

Ophiopogon jaburan

From Japan. Sometimes sold as Liriope gigantea. Grows 2 to 3 ft. tall, 1 to 1 1/2 ft. wide, with dark green, slightly curved, 1/2-in.-wide leaves. Forms clumps; does not spread by underground stems. Nodding clusters of small white flowers are followed by showy, 1/2-in.-long oval fruits in a metallic violet blue (attractive in arrangements).