Genus · Asparagaceae
Ophiopogon
3 species tracked in Horta’s catalog, and the named cultivars growers keep. Walk down to a species for its full care record, or into a cultivar for its traits and provenance.
Species in this genus
The ones growers meet most — each links to its own page.
Ophiopogon japonicus
Dwarf Lilyturf
A low, grass-like evergreen perennial from the woodland understory of East and Southeast Asia, spreading by fleshy roots and tolerant of shade. It prefers steady but moderate moisture and dappled or filtered light rather than harsh sun. Water when the top inch of mix has dried, and avoid leaving it standing in saturated soil.
Ophiopogon planiscapus
Black Mondo
Ophiopogon planiscapus is a low, grass-like evergreen perennial from Japan, forming clumps of strappy, arching foliage from a fibrous, slightly tuberous root system. As a temperate woodland-edge plant it favors even, moderate moisture without sitting wet, and tolerates partial shade to dappled light rather than harsh sun. Water when the top inch of mix has dried, then water thoroughly and let it approach dryness again.
Ophiopogon jaburan
Lilyturf
A clumping, grass-like perennial from temperate East Asian woodlands, where it grows as ground cover in dappled shade. It prefers even but not waterlogged moisture; water when the top inch of mix is dry, easing off in cooler months. Bright filtered light or partial shade suits it best — strong direct sun can scorch the foliage.
About the genus
A genus-level overview — shared traits, history, the botany that ties these plants together — is on its way. For now, the species and cultivars above and below carry the genus.
Kept true by its growers
Ophiopogon keeps evolving — species move, cultivars appear, IDs get corrected. If you can place an unplaced plant or add a species we’re missing, the whole genus gets truer.
Overview derived from 3 tracked species · the contribute flow arrives with the next slice.