Theropogon pallidus

Lily Turf Asparagaceae

A rather splendid Himalayan member of the lilyturf clan, and one that has had a name change worth keeping. This rare collection from Lengteng, Mizoram, at approximately 2,000m, forms a handsome clump of broad, dark-green, arching leaves, reaching around 30cm tall. Its substantial foliage immediately sets it apart from the finer-leaved Ophiopogon with which it can easily be confused.

Theropogon pallidus produces delicate drooping, bell-shaped flowers in white to pale lilac, carried on slender flowering stems above the foliage, followed by attractive bluish-black berries. The species was formerly placed in Ophiopogon as Ophiopogon pallidus, but is now recognised as Theropogon pallidus, the sole species in its genus.

It is native to the eastern Himalaya and south-western China, extending through north-eastern India, including Mizoram, Manipur, Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland, generally in cool, moist montane habitats. Our Lengteng collection, at around 2,000m, is therefore particularly appropriate provenance for the species.

A choice plant for cool woodland or a shaded border, where the broad evergreen foliage provides excellent structure. Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil, preferably protected from hot afternoon sun.

Height: 30cm
Spread: 30–45cm
Flowering: May–June
Hardiness: H5, approximately -15 to -10°C
Position: Partial shade to shade
Soil: Moist, fertile, humus-rich, well-drained
Collection: Lengteng, Mizoram, India — c. 2,000m
Formerly: Ophiopogon pallidus
Special feature: Broad, arching foliage and delicate pendulous flowers.