groundcover

Variegated Lilyturf

Ophiopogon jaburan 'Vittatus'

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

24 inches

Width

15 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Ophiopogon jaburan 'Vittatus' is a dense, clumping evergreen perennial with narrow, variegated leaves featuring creamy white and green stripes. In summer, it produces racemes of small, bell-shaped, white to pale lilac flowers, followed by showy, blue berries. This cultivar is distinguished by its striking variegated foliage, adding ornamental value, and its resilience in shaded garden areas, making it an attractive choice for low-maintenance borders.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen interest with variegated foliage year-round, enhancing shaded garden beds.

Requires minimal care, tolerates drought and clay soils, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Supports local insect populations without attracting pests or deer.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or plant divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for propagation.
Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years to rejuvenate growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Mulch annually to retain moisture
Divide every 2-3 years to prevent crowding

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun in hot climates
Avoid heavy fertilization which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderEvergreen groundcoverLow-maintenance shade garden

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Heuchera Japanese painted fern Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Variegated Lilyturf questions

What zones can Variegated Lilyturf grow in?

Variegated Lilyturf is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Variegated Lilyturf deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Variegated Lilyturf, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Variegated Lilyturf bloom?

Variegated Lilyturf typically blooms in late summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Variegated Lilyturf need full sun?

Variegated Lilyturf does best in part shade.

Is Variegated Lilyturf drought tolerant?

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