What are the basic facts about Ophiopogon japonicus? This article will give you a rundown

Ophiopogon japonicus is a new and superior ground cover plant promoted and planted by China's landscaping departments in recent years. It is enjoyed for its flowers in summer and its greenery in spring, autumn and winter. Its tuberous roots are used in medicine and have the effects of moistening the lungs to stop coughing and benefiting the stomach to promote fluid production.

Ophiopogon japonicus is a perennial evergreen herbaceous plant of the Liliaceae family, with spindle-shaped tuberous roots at the ends of the roots. The leaves are velvety, 15 to 20 cm long. The flower stems emerge from the leaf clusters, with racemes in spike form, bisexual flowers, and 6 tepals. The flowers are light purple when they first open and gradually turn white. It can be used as ground cover under trees. The flowering period is July to August; the fruiting period is September to October.

Ophiopogon japonicus is native to northern and northwestern China. It is cold-resistant and drought-tolerant, prefers semi-shaded environments, has an optimum growing temperature of 15°C to 28°C, and is suitable for growing in loose, fertile sandy loam. Ophiopogon japonicus is propagated by sowing or division. Sow indoors in pots in winter and plant out in the ground in spring. Pot planting is best done in spring and summer, with a plant spacing of 15 x 20 cm. When used as ground cover under trees, it can cover the ground in the same year. Ophiopogon japonicus has strong adaptability. During the growing period, apply a topdressing once every half month. Organic fertilizer can be applied in appropriate amounts, such as soybean cake, sesame paste residue or dried chicken manure; a small amount of compound chemical fertilizer can also be applied. Whichever fertilizer is used, clear water must be watered immediately afterward to prevent the fertilizer from burning the leaves and roots.