Dwarf lilyturf - Ophiopogon japonicus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Dwarf lilyturf

Also known as: Snake's beard, Monkeygrass

Dwarf lilyturf (Ophiopogon japonicus) is an evergreen perennial plant native to China, Japan, India, and Vietnam. Dwarf lilyturf is grown for ornamental ground cover and sometimes sold for commercial aquariums. It has been used in traditional Chinese mysticism rituals.

Scientific classification

Species

Dwarf lilyturf (Ophiopogon japonicus)

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

7 mm to 8 mm

Flower Size

Blue

Fruit Color

White, Purple, Pink

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Dwarf lilyturf

Distribution of Dwarf lilyturf

Distribution Map

Dwarf lilyturf grows across its native East Asia in forests, slopes, and damp locations. The plant has also been introduced to Indonesia, Argentina, and parts of Southeast Asia after escaping ornamental cultivation.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp ground in lowland and foothills, forests, dense scrub in ravines, moist, slopes, along streams, cliffs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Economic Value

Dwarf lily-turf is a crop with high economic value.

Garden Use

Dwarf lilyturf is often planted in clusters in gardens, where its greenery fills the spaces between showier species. It is appreciated for the lush, dense clumps it creates in low-light areas, and is often used in rock gardens, borders, ground cover, or in beds. It's a good filler for bulb plantings and provides a great contrast to plants with lighter-colored foliage or flowers, really making them pop.

Symbolism

Fearlessness, and asking for nothing in return

Interesting Facts

It is said that the dwarf lilyturf was a fairy in the sky. She could not bear to see people suffer from fevers, so she was determined to save them. The dwarf lilyturf fairy put her magical power upon the plants she grew so that they could cure diseases. Later, people called this plant the dwarf lilyturf.

Name Story

Dwarf lilyturf: Plants from Liriope genus are usually used for their evergreen foliage as a groundcover. This plant is called lilyturf because the leaves look similar but thinner and longer to that of liriope plants. The plant is actually smaller than the typical liriope plant, so it is called dwarf lilyturf.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Dwarf lilyturf, including the following common varieties :

Dwarf lilyturf 'Nana'

Quickly Identify Dwarf lilyturf

Dense mound of narrow, evergreen leaves, 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) tall.

Bell-shaped lilac flowers in raceme inflorescence, 4 to 14 inches (10 to 35 cm) long.

Eye-catching cobalt blue berries, less than 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter.

Simple, dark green linear leaves, up to 16 inches (40 cm) long, 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) wide.

Prominent thin stolons with branching nodes, facilitating spread and clump formation.

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Care Guide for Dwarf lilyturf

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Dwarf lilyturf thrives in humid environments and requires consistent moisture, being drought-sensitive. Weekly watering is essential for its lushness. Primarily an outdoor plant, it grows best when conditions mimic natural rainfall, promoting vigorous growth during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, dwarf lilyturf thrives on balanced fertilizers with equal N-P-K ratios, applied quarterly based on size. Increased frequency in spring and summer boosts vitality, while less is needed in fall and winter. Incorporate fertilizer into moist soil to avoid root burn, observing foliage for health indicators.

Pruning: Dwarf lilyturf is a low-growing, evergreen perennial featuring grass-like foliage and small violet flowers. Prune in early spring to remove dead leaves and enhance growth. Regular trimming improves air circulation and plant vigor. Use clean, sharp tools for best results.

Propagation: Dwarf lilyturf should be propagated by division in spring or autumn, featuring moderate difficulty. Success is indicated by new shoots. Prompt replanting of divided roots is crucial for optimal growth.

Repotting: Dwarf lilyturf benefits from repotting every 2-3 years in spring. It prefers slightly larger, well-draining containers to support its spreading roots. After repotting, provide moderate watering and partial shade to help dwarf lilyturf establish without disturbing its delicate root system.

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