Species

Rohdea japonicaNippon Lily

9 other cultivars

perennial

Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily

Rohdea japonica 'Gunjaku'

The Story

Plant Bio

Rohdea japonica, commonly known as Japanese Sacred Lily, is a perennial evergreen with strap-like, glossy green leaves forming clumps and producing small, white, fragrant flowers in winter or early spring.

The cultivar Gunjaku is distinguished by its variegated foliage featuring striking cream and green margins, adding ornamental value throughout the year.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen foliage and early spring color, ideal for shaded gardens.

Low water requirements once established, tolerant of poor soils.

Supports local pollinators and provides habitat in shaded garden areas.

SpeciesRohdea japonicaNippon Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

15 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

All parts may cause mild stomach upset if ingested.

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seedlings or divisions into well-prepared soil
Water thoroughly after planting
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Monitor for pests and treat as needed
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Prefers shaded areas with well-draining, moist soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Mulch around the base to retain moisture
Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring

Don't

Avoid full sun which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent weak growth

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

Shaded border with evergreen textureGroundcover under taller shrubsUnderstory planting in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas HeucheraJapanese maples Azaleas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily questions

What zones can Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily grow in?

Gunjaku 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 Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily bloom?

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

Does Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily need full sun?

Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily does best in part shade.

Is Gunjaku Japanese Sacred Lily drought tolerant?

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