Ophiopogon jaburan Variegated, often called Variegated Lilyturf or White Lilyturf, is a tough, low-growing evergreen perennial that forms dense tufts of long, strap-shaped leaves elegantly margined and striped in cream-white and green. Though grass-like in appearance, it belongs to the asparagus family and spreads slowly by short rhizomes to form a neat, weed-suppressing carpet.
In Indian gardens it is prized as an ornamental ground cover and border edging that thrives in partial to full shade, tolerating the heat of the plains once established. In summer to monsoon it sends up small spikes of pale lilac to white bell-shaped flowers, sometimes followed by glossy blue-violet berries.
Virtually maintenance-free, it is widely used in landscaping, under trees, along pathways, in pots and in mass plantings where its bright variegation lights up dim corners year-round.
Specifications
| Family |
Asparagaceae |
| Native region |
Japan, East Asia |
| Mature height |
30-60 cm |
| Mature spread |
30-45 cm per clump |
| Growth rate |
Slow to moderate |
| Foliage |
Evergreen, arching strap-like leaves striped green and creamy-white |
| Flower colour |
Pale lilac to white |
| Flower season |
Summer to monsoon (June-September) |
| Climate zone |
Tropical and subtropical; thrives in most Indian plains and hill gardens |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Partial to full shade; tolerates morning sun. Harsh afternoon sun can scorch the variegated leaves. |
| Watering |
Keep soil evenly moist, watering 2-3 times a week. Reduce in winter. Avoid waterlogging. |
| Soil / mix |
Well-drained, fertile, humus-rich loamy soil. Add compost and a little sand for drainage. |
| Temperature |
Grows best at 15-32 C; tolerates Indian summer heat in shade and survives mild frost. |
| Humidity |
Prefers moderate to high humidity; appreciates misting in very dry climates. |
| Fertilizer |
Feed with balanced NPK or organic compost once every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. |
| Pruning |
Trim away old, yellowed or damaged leaves at the base; cut back lightly in spring to refresh the clump. |
| Repotting |
Repot or divide every 2-3 years in spring when clumps become crowded. |
| Propagation |
Easily propagated by clump division in spring or early monsoon; also by seed. |
| Pests & problems |
Generally pest-free; watch for slugs, snails, mealybugs and occasional root rot in soggy soil. |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
- Evergreen ground cover for shaded beds and beneath trees
- Neat edging along pathways, borders and driveways
- Mass planting for erosion control on shaded slopes
- Container and patio displays where its variegation brightens dim spots
- Low-maintenance landscaping for homes, offices and public gardens
Growing tips
Plant at the onset of the monsoon (June-July) for fastest establishment with natural rainfall.
Position in partial shade; in hot North Indian plains protect from direct afternoon sun to keep variegation crisp. Mulch around clumps to conserve moisture during summer. Divide overgrown clumps in spring to multiply plants and keep them vigorous. Water consistently in dry pre-monsoon months and ensure good drainage during heavy rains.
