Nippon Lily (Rohdea japonica): Evergreen Shade Perennial

Rohdea japonica, known as Nippon Lily or Sacred Lily, is a stemless, evergreen perennial from the Asparagaceae family, native to Japan and China. It forms a dense clump of leathery, dark green, strap-like leaves 12 to 18 inches long.

Inconspicuous flowers appear at ground level in spring, followed by bright red berries that persist into winter. It thrives in deep shade, well-drained soil, and is remarkably drought-tolerant once established. A superb, low-maintenance groundcover for woodland gardens. Synonyms include Orontium japonicum and Rohdea esquirolii.

Taxonomic Details