Liriope

(Liriope muscari `Variegata')

Contact: Diane Relf, Extension Specialist, Environmental Horticulture

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Evergreen or semi-evergreen broadleaf
Height: 12 to 18 inches
Shape: Spreading

Grass-like foliage is green or variegated, and flowers are variable in color, depending on the variety.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 6 to 10
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet, moist, or dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 7.0

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include ground cover.

Planting Notes:

Transplants readily.
Place in full sun or partial shade. Plant 12 inches apart in any soil, although well-drained soil is preferred.
Heat, drought, and salt tolerant.

Care:

Easy to maintain.
Can mow old foliage to the ground in late winter if plant becomes shaggy.
Divide plants every few years to increase coverage.

Problems:

No serious pests; however, scale can occur.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Related species:
LIRIOPE SPICATA has smaller leaves than L. MUSCARI.

Comments:

Lilyturf is a versatile, grass-like ground cover that adapts to a wide range of conditions, including drought and salt spray.
Used as ground covers under trees and shrubs, on slopes and banks, and as low edging plants along paved areas or in front of foundation plantings.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061 #426-609 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Ground Covers"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

Visit Virginia Cooperative Extension