Ophiopogon japonicus

• Trimming: Tidy clumps by combing out dead blades by hand, or shear back hard in late winter/early spring to refresh growth (leave a few cm above the crown). Divide congested clumps every few years to keep them vigorous and even.

• Deadheading: Not usually required. If it sets small flowers/berries, you can snip spent flower stems for a cleaner look, but it’s optional.

• Fertilising: Feed lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser or a thin layer of compost. Avoid heavy feeding (it can encourage soft, floppy growth).

• Watering: Water regularly while establishing (first summer), keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established it’s fairly tolerant, but during extended dry periods give a deep soak to prevent browning at the tips, especially in full sun or free-draining soils.

• Pest control: Watch for slugs and snails on fresh growth, especially in damp/shady sites, use iron-based slug bait, hand-picking, or barriers. In warmer, sheltered spots, scale insects can appear; treat with horticultural oil and improve airflow.

• Disease management: Generally trouble-free, but can get root/crown rot in poorly drained soils, look for yellowing, collapse, and mushy crowns. Improve drainage, avoid overwatering, and replant only healthy divisions. Leaf spot can occur in humid conditions remove affected foliage, reduce overhead watering, and keep clumps thinned for airflow.

Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.

For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:

• Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
• Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
• Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options. 

We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.