Liriope 1 to 8 of 8 total
Liriope 1 to 8 of 8 total
Liriope
Uses:
- Shaded Borders
- Groundcover Under Trees
- Erosion Control
- Container Gardens
Features:
- Grass-Like Evergreen Foliage
- Deer & Rabbit Resistant
- Low Maintenance & Adaptable
Sunlight:
- Full Shade to Full Sun
- Can Live in Most Sunlight Conditions
Growing Zones:
- 4-11
- What is My Zone?
Liriope, commonly known as lilyturf, is an evergreen perennial that adapts to a variety of sites including clay, sand, and deep shade. It also tolerates heat, humidity, drought, and salt. The grass-like foliage stays less than 18 inches high and makes an attractive ground cover. It sends up bloom spikes in summer holding clusters of purple or white flowers that transition to dark berries. One of the species, Liriope spicata spreads quickly by rhizomes and can be used as a turf alternative.
About Liriope
Genus
Liriope
Species
Liriope muscari, Liriope spicata, Liriope gigantea, Liriope minor
Family
Asparagaceae
Common Names:
Border Grass, Lilyturf
Native To:
China, Taiwan, and Japan
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Evergreen
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
4-10
Flower Color:
Purple
Flower Bloom Time:
Late summer
Growth Habit:
Clumping
Attracts:
Butterflies, bees, hummingbirds
Tolerates
Heat, frost
Resists:
Pests, Disease
How To Use Liriope In The Garden
Liriope, commonly known as Monkey Grass or Lilyturf, is a hardy perennial that adapts to challenging environments, including dry, shaded areas near large tree roots. In early autumn, it produces lavender-colored flower spikes, followed by dark berries that attract birds. Its grass-like foliage and clumping growth habit make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance groundcover solutions.
Liriope's spreading nature effectively covers difficult-to-plant areas, providing soil erosion control and weed suppression. Gardeners often use it to edge garden beds and walkways, creating a neat, defined border with dense, arching leaves. Additionally, Liriope's tolerance for various light conditions—from full sun to full shade—makes it a suitable for most landscape settings.
Liriope Care
Liriope thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter like garden compost. Position Liriope in full to partial shade; variegated varieties may benefit from increased sunlight. During the first year, water when the top few inches of soil are dry. Once established, Liriope becomes relatively drought-tolerant, though it prefers consistently moist soil. In early spring, applying a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, can promote healthy growth.
Prune Liriope in early spring to remove brown or damaged foliage, which helps maintain its appearance and encourages new growth. Leave the foliage intact during winter to protect the plant's crown, as Liriope is cold and frost-tolerant but may suffer in extremely harsh conditions. When growing Liriope in containers, mix well-draining soil with organic matter, and ensure pots have ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Be prepared to thin container-grown plants every 2-3 years to manage their spreading habit.
Learn More About Liriope
Liriope Companion Plants
Liriope relishes moist yet sharply draining soil, a neutral‑to‑slightly acidic profile, and at least a half day of direct sun. Viburnum supplies height and an early flush of blooms while its bare lower stems disappear behind liriope’s evergreen tuft. Daylily steps in next with arching leaves and a later wave of color that extends the show. Coneflower pokes above the grassy clumps to lure pollinators and echo the lavender flower spikes, and low mounds of sedge weave among the liriope to add fine texture plus winter interest. These companions match liriope’s sun tolerance, thrive in the same lean soil, stagger their bloom times for months of interest, and contrast leaf shapes so the border stays visually balanced even when flowers fade.
