Species

Rohdea japonicaNippon Lily

9 other cultivars

perennial

Chirimen Boshi Japanese Sacred Lily

Rohdea japonica 'Chirimen Boshi'

The Story

Plant Bio

Rohdea japonica, known as Japanese Sacred Lily, is a perennial evergreen with broad, glossy lance-shaped leaves and small, bell-shaped flowers that emerge in late winter to early spring, followed by bright red berries.

The Chirimen Boshi cultivar is distinguished by its densely variegated foliage with intricate patterns, adding ornamental appeal, and its compact growth habit makes it ideal for shaded garden borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round green foliage with seasonal interest; ideal for shaded areas.

Tolerant of drought and deer, low-maintenance for busy gardeners.

Supports local pollinators with minimal chemical intervention.

SpeciesRohdea japonicaNippon Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Japan

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded spot with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into soil, 1 inch deep, in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during propagation, takes 4 weeks.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil is rich in organic matter for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Prune dead or damaged leaves

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to direct harsh sunlight
Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden with glossy green foliageEvergreen border for year-round structureVanilla-scented underplanting

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas HeucheraJapanese maples Astilbes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chirimen Boshi Japanese Sacred Lily questions

What zones can Chirimen Boshi Japanese Sacred Lily grow in?

Chirimen Boshi 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 Chirimen Boshi Japanese Sacred Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Chirimen Boshi Japanese Sacred Lily bloom?

Chirimen Boshi 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 Chirimen Boshi Japanese Sacred Lily need full sun?

Chirimen Boshi Japanese Sacred Lily does best in part shade.