perennial

Japanese Sacred Lily

Rohdea japonica 'Apple Court'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

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 tough, evergreen perennial with upright, strap-like, dark green leaves. Inconspicuous flowers are followed by attractive red berries in fall and winter. The 'Apple Court' cultivar is distinguished by its unique, heavily crested leaf tips, creating a ruffled or parsley-like appearance at the end of each leaf.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen, glossy foliage that brightens shaded areas.

Low-maintenance and deer resistant, ideal for shaded gardens.

Supports local pollinators by maintaining year-round foliage.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
Monitor for pests and remove weeds regularly.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained, shaded soil for best growth and health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool
Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
Fertilize annually with organic compost
Monitor for pests and treat organically if needed

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
Refrain from disturbing roots excessively
Don’t use chemical fertilizers excessively
Avoid planting in overly wet or poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden borderEvergreen privacy screenWoodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Hosta Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Japanese Maple

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 early spring through early 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.