To successfully select companion plants for Rohdea japonica (Sacred Lily or Nippon Lily), one must first understand its preferred environment. This evergreen perennial thrives in dense to partial shade, mirroring its native woodland habitat. It prefers consistently moist, humus-rich soil that is well-draining yet never becomes completely dry. The plant forms a dense, low clump of deep green, strap-like leaves, providing a strong architectural form and textural contrast. Its late summer to autumn flowers are often inconspicuous, but they develop into brilliant red berries that persist into winter, offering a crucial seasonal highlight. Therefore, ideal companions will share its cultural needs while offering contrasting or complementary forms, textures, and seasonal interest.
The bold, upright leaves of Rohdea japonica pair beautifully with plants that have a different leaf shape and habit. The soft, delicate fronds of ferns are a perfect counterpoint. Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) and various Dryopteris species (Wood Ferns) provide a fine-textured, lacy backdrop that makes the Rohdea's solidity stand out. Similarly, the heart-shaped, often silver-veined leaves of Hosta varieties offer a wonderful textural and color contrast. For a more dramatic textural juxtaposition, consider the large, peltate leaves of Podophyllum pleianthum (Chinese Mayapple), which rise above the Rohdea, creating distinct vertical layers.
To knit the garden floor together and suppress weeds, low-growing ground covers are essential companions. The evergreen, slow-spreading habit of Asarum species (Wild Ginger) is an excellent choice, its glossy, kidney-shaped leaves forming a beautiful carpet that complements the Rohdea's upright form. Pachysandra terminalis (Japanese Spurge) provides a similar function with its whorls of glossy green leaves, creating a uniform, lush underplanting. For a touch of floral charm, Epimedium species (Barrenwort) are superb. Their airy sprays of flowers in spring and heart-shaped leaves, which often develop attractive tints in fall and winter, provide multi-seasonal interest right at the base of the Rohdea clumps.
While Rohdea japonica provides stunning winter berries, other plants can extend the seasonal spectacle. The vibrant, crystalline flowers of Helleborus orientalis (Lenten Rose) bloom in late winter to early spring, often as the Rohdea's berries are still present, creating a unique display. To echo the berry theme, consider adding Gaultheria procumbens (Wintergreen), a low-growing evergreen shrublet that produces bright red berries alongside the Rohdea. For a late-season floral display that follows the Rohdea's flowering period, the white plumes of Anemone × hybrida (Japanese Anemone) can be incorporated at the back of a larger planting, though they can tolerate shade, they may flower less profusely.
