Liriope - Culture

A versatile plant for many landscape needs.

Liriope will tolerate hot, dry conditions better than most shrubs, ground covers, and grasses. They are among the better substitutes for grasses in densely shaded areas or areas where there is heavy competition from roots from large trees.

One of the most extensively used landscape plant materials are the Liriopes. They are often called border grass. A plant very similar is monkey grass.

Liriope and monkey grass, even though quite different, are members of the lily family. The characteristic that makes the lily turfs desirable landscape plants is that they will survive in a wide range of environmental conditions.

They will tolerate hot, dry conditions better than most shrubs, ground covers, and grasses. They are among the better substitutes for grasses in densely shaded areas or areas where there is heavy competition from roots from large trees. They can be easily established on steep slopes where it is impractical to establish and maintain grasses.

The most common form of Liriope is Liriope Muscari which is useful as mass plantings or borders. A number of variegated forms are available. Varieties such as "Big Blue", "Majestic", "Gold Banded" and "John Birch" have been developed for their flower characteristics as well as hardiness and adaptability to severe conditions.

Even though lily turfs will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, they grow and develop best in good soil. To plant, prepare the soil by breaking up or rototilling to a depth of 6 inches.

Dividing clumps…

Liriope is usually purchased as gallon or quart size plants. Gardeners often divide established plantings by digging and dividing the clumps. The digging and dividing process can require considerable labor.

To more easily divide the clumps, take a strong stream of water and rinse the soil away from the roots. The individual plants can be separated from the clumps. Plant immediately after dividing.

Placement…

Place liriope plants 12 inches apart and in staggered rows. Mondo, or monkey grass, should be spaced 6 inches apart. This spacing will provide a satisfactory foliage mass after two years.

Moisture…

A mulch of leaves, pine straw, or pine bark will reduce weed problems and help maintain a uniform soil moisture level. Moisture usually will be a limiting factor. Thoroughly watering once per week should supply the moisture needs.

Fertilize…

Fertilization should consist of an application of your general purpose garden or fertilizer in the early spring and again in mid summer. Rinse any fertilizer material from the foliage.

For more information on the culture of liriopes, contact your local County Extension Office.