Liriope ‘Pee Dee Ingot’

‘Big Blue’ Liriope

Monkeygrass (Liriope muscari) and creeping lilyturf  (L. spicata) are native to Asia. They are known by several names including lilyturf, monkeygrass, spider grass and liriope (USDA hardiness zones 6-10). Some varieties are hardier than others.

In general, L. muscari have more narrow leaves. Depending on variety, spikes of lavender, purple, or white flowers arise in late summer followed by small black berries. Leaves are more flattened and shorter in length than those of L. muscari.

Monkeygrass (L. muscari) are taller growing clumps, 15 to 18 inches and 24 inches wide, and spread slowly by short stolons. Creeping lily-turf (L. spicata) spreads more aggressively and are listed as invasive plants in some Southeast U.S. states.

Liriopes are easy to grow in average well-drained soil and in either full sun or light shade. Space plants 15-18 inches apart. If necessary, amend the soil with compost, peat, or other organic materials. Irrigate liriopes well after planting and keep the soil moist their first growing season for proper establishment. Mulch around the plants to conserve soil moisture and reduce weed infestation.Feed in early spring with a granular fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or equivalent.

Divide wide clumps of older liriopes every 2-3 years in the late winter or early spring. Before new growth emerges in early spring, cutback old brown foliage with a mower; set mower height at 5 inches or higher. Liriopes have few disease or pest problems. The plants tolerate urban air pollutants and are deer resistant.

L. muscari makes an attractive edging along walkways, driveways and in woodland gardens.  They make wonderful accents in plant combos in large containers. Deep rooting liriopes are often utilized for erosion prevention on banks and slopes. L. spicata spreads quickly by underground rhizomes and cover bare ground around trees or in problem areas.

There are too many varieties to list here. Here are a select few:

‘Big Blue’ – 15” x 24″ wide clump, arching, green ¼” wide leaf blades; lavender flower spikes in late summer.

‘PeeDee Ingot’ – 18″ x 30″ wide clump; gold foliage in full sun or chartreuse-green in partial shade.

‘Variegata’ – 12” x 18″ wide clump of medium green leaves and creamy yellow edges; lavender flower spikes mid-summer.

‘Monroe White’ – 12″ x 18″ wide clump; ½” wide, dark green leaves; full, white flower spikes in summer.

‘Silver Dragon’ (L. spicata) – 12” x 3 ft. wide; form slow growing colonies of narrow upright green white-striped foliage.