Ophiopogon are grassy hardy perennials that reach heights of between 15 and 30 cm.
They have long narrow dark green or purple leaves, and bloom in the middle of summer with small blue or white flowers.
They then bear fruit with bluish black berries. Some common names for Ophiopogon include Jaburan, Mondo grass, Snakesbeard and Lilyturf.
Ophiopogon planiscapus (nigrescens) by Drew Avery.
Ophiopogon japonicus picture by wallygrom.
Ophiopogon can be sowed outdoors in the autumn at a depth of 7 mm. They have a preference for slightly shaded conditions but Ophiopogon species are able to grow in sunny and fully shaded conditions too.
As they can grow on any type of soil Jaburan are very versatile plants for use in the garden.
When growing Jaburan and related species indoors the seeds should first be soaked for a day in warm water, then sowed in flats and allowed to germinate at between 18 and 21 degrees Centigrade.
Plants should be prepared about two months before they are due to be put out after the last frost of spring; it takes Ophiopogon from 4 to 6 weeks to germinate. Once ready transplant outside with a spacing of 10 to 15 cm (small species) to 30 cm (large species).
Once established it is a good idea to tidy up Jaburan (and other Ophiopogon genus) plants in the spring by trimming them.
Every five years or so the Ophiopogon plants should be divided in the spring to maintain vigor, and also to propagate more plants.
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