Big Blue Liriope muscari

Lilyturf is a broadleaf evergreen, clump-forming, perennial in the Asparagaceae (asparagus) family. The name liriope is derived from new Latin and is a nymph in Roman mythology.  Though it may resemble an ornamental grass it is not a true grass.

Lilyturf requires acidic to neutral well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate almost full shade but growth is slow and leaves are elongated. 

Narrow, grass-like leaves grow up to 24 inches tall and are long-lasting. This low maintenance plant blooms in late summer with spikes of purple flowers that are followed by nearly black berries.

In their first year they will need regular watering to keep soils moist but once they are established they require very little supplemental irrigation.  They are light feeders and benefit from a slow-release or organic fertilizer applied in the early spring.  To maintain an attractive appearance, cut back tops each February before new growth begins.  It is normally not necessary to propagate liriope plants as they are aggressive growers though this plant is less aggressive than L. spicata.

Use lilyturf for edging, rock gardens, containers, in woodland settings, or as a ground cover. It is drought and deer tolerant, moderately salt-tolerant, and can be used as a lawn alternative for lawns that receive occasional light foot traffic. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Plant is acaulescent 
• Berries are aborted before winter
• Linear leaves are about 0.5 to 1 inch wide
• Plant is rhizomatous

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Anthracnose, leaf and crown rot, slugs, and snails are occasional problems though it is a mostly problem free plant.

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.

More information on Liriope.