Overview

Ophiopogon planiscapus is a clump forming grass like in the genus Ophiopogon, part of the Asparagaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Ophiopogon planiscapus grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. It is low maintenance.

About

Ophiopogon planiscapus is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae. It is a small evergreen perennial growing to 20 cm (8 in) tall by 30 cm (12 in)wide. It grows from short rhizomes, and bears tufts of grasslike leaves, from which purple or white flowers emerge in racemes held on short stems above the leaves. It is native to Japan, where it grows on open and forested slopes. It grows to around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, carrying evergreen foliage. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and most soil types. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and east-facing, south-facing and west-facing aspects.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Ophiopogon planiscapus

About the genus

Ophiopogon (lilyturf) is a genus of evergreen perennial plants native to warm temperate to tropical East, Southeast, and South Asia. Despite their grasslike appearance, they are not closely related to the true grasses, the Poaceae. The name of the genus is derived from Greek ὄφις ophis, 'snake' and πώγων pogon, 'beard', most probably referring to its leaves and tufted growth.

Wikipedia contributors, "Ophiopogon", CC BY-SA 4.0Ophiopogon

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ophiopogon

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered

Plant details

Ophiopogon planiscapus size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Grass Like, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Ophiopogon planiscapus?

Ophiopogon planiscapus prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Ophiopogon planiscapus need?

Ophiopogon planiscapus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Ophiopogon planiscapus grow?

Ophiopogon planiscapus reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

More in the Ophiopogon genus

Browse all Ophiopogon

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