Chinese Lucky Grass Reineckea carnea
ABOUT
Reineckea carnea, commonly known as evergreen sacred lily, is a perennial herb that features lush green foliage. The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and glossy, displaying a deep emerald hue. They typically grow in dense clumps, creating a carpet-like effect low to the ground. The flowering aspect of the plant presents petite, bell-shaped blossoms that are usually pink or light purple, adding a delicate contrast against the dark green leaves. These flowers often appear on short, inconspicuous spikes that rise slightly above the level of the foliage, carrying a subtle charm. The evergreen sacred lily's overall appearance conveys a sense of hardiness and robust growth, which makes it a favored choice for ground cover in garden settings where it can spread to form a continuous layer of vibrant green, punctuated by the soft colors of its blooms in the right seasons. Its aesthetic is characterized by an evergreen presence, providing year-round interest and color to gardens or shaded areas.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Chinese Lucky Grass, Evergreen Sacred Lily, Sacred Lily Of China
Common names
Ophiopogon carneus, Peliosanthes carnea, Tupistra carnea.
ToxicityTo humans
Reineckea carnea, commonly known as Chinese Lucky Grass, is not widely reported to be toxic to humans. There is limited information on the plant causing adverse effects if ingested by people. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, and caution should be exercised when handling or ingesting plants that are not commonly used for culinary purposes. If you suspect poisoning from any plant, it is crucial to consult a medical professional immediately.
To pets
Chinese Lucky Grass is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is no well-documented evidence that ingestion of Reineckea carnea causes poisoning in animals such as dogs and cats. However, pet owners should always be cautious and prevent their pets from ingesting any non-food plants. Some pets may have individual sensitivities or reactions to plants that are not typically toxic. If signs of illness appear after ingestion of any part of the plant, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Reineckea carnea, commonly known as the Chinese lucky grass, is often used for decorative purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its lush green foliage and pink to purple flowers.
- Ground Cover: The plant's spreading habit makes it useful for ground cover, helping to reduce soil erosion and suppress weeds.
- Shade Tolerance: It is well-suited for shaded areas where many plants may not thrive, making it ideal for underplanting in wooded gardens or shaded borders.
- Low Maintenance: Chinese lucky grass is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, thus making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can withstand periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of Reineckea carnea can attract pollinators to the garden, such as bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for the ecosystem.
- Seasonal Interest: With a long flowering season and evergreen foliage, it provides visual interest throughout the year.
- Soil Versatility: Chinese lucky grass can adapt to a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained, moist conditions.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, it is considered a symbol of good fortune, and as such, it may be used in cultural and festive gardens or traditional landscaping.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ground cover: Reineckea carnea can be used in shaded garden areas to form a dense evergreen mat, suppressing weeds and minimizing soil erosion.
- Ornamental Value: With its attractive foliage and pink to purplish flowers, Reineckea carnea is used for ornamental purposes in shade gardens or woodland settings.
- Border Planting: It can be planted alongside garden walkways or borders, providing a lush, green edge throughout the year.
- Container Gardening: Due to its compact size, Reineckea carnea is suitable for growing in pots as part of a shaded patio or balcony garden display.
- Floral Arrangements: The flowers and foliage can be used in floral arrangements, especially for adding greenery and texture.
- Companion Planting: This plant can be effectively paired with other shade-loving plants, such as ferns and hostas, to create varied textures in the garden.
- Feng Shui: In some cultures, Reineckea carnea is used in Feng Shui for its evergreen nature, symbolizing longevity and vitality.
- Photography Prop: Its aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for photographers looking to add natural elements to their compositions.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not widely known, the flowers can occasionally be used as an edible garnish. (Care should be taken as not all plants in the Liliaceae family are edible or safe to consume.)
- Educational Tool: In schools or educational gardens, it can be used as a living specimen to teach about plant biology, particularly in the context of native plant species and shade-adapted plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Chinese Lucky Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Chinese Lucky Grass is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Reineckea carnea is known for its ability to thrive in shady environments, illustrating the idea of resilience and adaptation in challenging conditions.
- Perseverance: As the plant can survive with minimal sunlight, it symbolizes perseverance and the will to continue despite hardships.
- Grounding: With its evergreen foliage and preference for being rooted in the ground, the plant represents stability and being grounded in one's life.
- Longevity: Known to be a long-lived plant, it represents longevity and the passage of time with grace.
WaterChinese Lucky Grass should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once every week to maintain consistent moisture. Care should be taken to avoid overwatering, ensuring that the pot has proper drainage. During active growth in spring and summer, water generously, providing about half a gallon per watering for a standard-sized pot. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter months, allowing the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings.
LightChinese Lucky Grass prefers bright, indirect light and should be placed in a location where it can receive such light for most of the day. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. A north or east-facing window with filtered light is usually ideal for this plant.
TemperatureChinese Lucky Grass thrives in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below this, as it is not frost-tolerant. Keep the plant away from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations for optimal growth.
PruningPrune Chinese Lucky Grass to maintain its shape and size, typically doing so in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves as needed throughout the year. Pruning is also an opportunity to propagate new plants by dividing the clumps.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChinese lucky grass prefers well-draining soil with a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and pine bark. The ideal soil pH for Chinese lucky grass should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingChinese lucky grass does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted once every 2 to 3 years or when it has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingChinese lucky grass thrives in moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity environments typical of households.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil lightly moist for indoor growth.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and protect from direct afternoon sun outdoors.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleReineckea carnea, commonly known as the Chinese reineckea, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination in suitable moist and shady conditions, develops a root system and shoots. The roots establish themselves, while the shoots grow into foliage with narrow, glossy leaves, characteristic of this evergreen perennial. The plant then matures and produces small, inconspicuous, reddish-pink flowers typically in late spring or early summer. After pollination, possibly aided by small insects, the flowers develop into berry-like fruits containing seeds, which when dispersed, can grow into new plants. In the vegetative stage, Reineckea carnea may also spread asexually through rhizomes, creating a clumping effect. Throughout its life, the plant goes through cycles of growth and dormancy, usually with growth peaking in the warm seasons and the plant entering a state of relative dormancy in colder months.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Reineckea carnea, commonly known as the Chinese Lucky Grass, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. The ideal time to propagate by division is in the spring as new growth begins. This procedure involves carefully digging up the plant, taking care not to damage the roots, and then gently separating the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the root system attached. After the division, the sections are then replanted into the ground or into pots with well-draining soil, aiming for a depth similar to that of the original plant. These divisions should be watered thoroughly and kept moist until the new plants are well established.
