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From the interest shown in Ophiopogon jaburan, or snake beard, by frequent garden visitors, I judge it is little used or known. If given a trial, however, I’m sure it would be a “must” for flower lovers.

For me it has two strong points in its favor. It is very hardy, and is an excellent border subject, attractive even when not in bloom. The narrow grass-like foliage is striped yellow or cream lengthwise, much like the old-fashioned ribbon grass which most of us know. It blooms about August, producing deep blue flower spikes, much like the grape hyacinth, which are very attractive and long lasting. On the whole this plant is just different enough to make it so desirable.

I have used Ophiopogon in full sun and in part shade with equal results. It grows about 10 inches high, and would be a good rock garden subject, though I have never used it as such. In my first experience, afraid to trust it in our climate, I brought it in the house and kept it in a cool, rather dry place. Later I experimented with it by bringing in only a part of it, and discovered that it was absolutely hardy outdoors. Older plants may easily be divided.

A Johanning