perennial

Japanese Sacred Lily

Rohdea japonica 'Twist and Shout'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moist but well-drained

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Rohdea japonica, commonly known as Japanese Sacred Lily, is a perennial evergreen with arching, strap-shaped leaves. Clusters of small, whitish to light yellow flowers bloom in late spring, followed by attractive red berries that persist into winter. This cultivar is distinguished by its unique, contorted or twisted, dark green leaves, providing significant textural interest in the shade garden year-round.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen foliage with glossy leaves, adding texture and color year-round.

Excellent for shaded areas where other plants struggle.

Supports local pollinators indirectly by enriching shaded garden habitats.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes into well-drained soil in spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist foliage during dry spells for best health.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and maintain soil temperature
Divide every few years to encourage healthy growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Avoid heavy, poorly draining soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden borderUnderstory in woodland garden

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Sacred Lily questions

What zones can Japanese Sacred Lily grow in?

Japanese Sacred Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Sacred Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Japanese Sacred Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Japanese Sacred Lily bloom?

Japanese Sacred Lily typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Sacred Lily need full sun?

Japanese Sacred Lily does best in part shade.

Is Japanese Sacred Lily drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Japanese Sacred Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.