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Liriope spicata
Spreading Shade Groundcover
- Aggressive Spreading Habit: This is the key differentiator. Liriope spicata spreads rapidly via underground rhizomes, forming a dense mat. This makes it excellent for filling in large areas quickly and suppressing weeds. Not all situations are suited to this spreading habit.
- Excellent Groundcover for Shade: While it can tolerate some sun, L. spicata thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for under trees and in other shady spots where many plants struggle.
- Erosion Control: Its dense, spreading root system is highly effective at stabilizing soil on slopes and preventing erosion. This is even more pronounced than with L. muscari.
- Drought Tolerant (Once Established): Like its cousin, L. spicata is remarkably drought-tolerant once its root system is established.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, needing little watering, fertilizing, or pruning.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Deer and rabbits generally avoid it. Again, "resistant," not "proof."
- Tolerates Foot Traffic: While not as tough as turfgrass, L. spicata can withstand moderate foot traffic, making it a good option for areas with occasional use.
- Tolerant of Various Soil Conditions: Will grow in a range of soils.
- Botanical Name: Liriope spicata
- Common Names: Creeping Lilyturf, Spreading Lilyturf, Monkey Grass (again, clarify the common name confusion)
- Hardiness Zones: Typically, USDA Zones 4-10. This is broader than L. muscari, a key selling point in colder climates.
- Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun, especially in cooler climates, but performs best in shade.
- Soil Preferences: Well-drained soil is preferred, but it is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam.
- Mature Height: Typically, 8-12 inches tall (slightly shorter than L. muscari on average).
- Spread: Indefinite, as it spreads via rhizomes. This is a critical point to emphasize.
- Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall.
- Flower Color: Usually pale lavender to white (the flowers are generally less showy than those of L. muscari).
Planting Bare Root Liriope spicata:
- When to Plant: Fall or early spring, while the plant is dormant.
- Soaking: Soak bare roots in water for 1-2 hours before planting (no more than 4 hours).
- Spacing: This is very important due to its spreading nature. Space plants 12-18 inches apart, or even further if you want a more natural, less dense look initially. Closer spacing will result in faster fill-in.
- Planting Depth: Plant the crown at or slightly above the soil level. The top of the root mass should be even with the surrounding soil.
- How to Plant:
- Dig a hole slightly wider and just as deep as the root mass.
- Gently spread out the roots in the hole.
- Backfill with soil, ensuring the crown is at the correct depth.
- Water thoroughly.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, keeping it away from the crown.
Planting Container-Grown Liriope spicata:
- When to Plant: Any time of year when the ground is not frozen.
- Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth it was growing in the container.
- How to Plant:
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the container and just as deep.
- Gently remove from pot.
- Loosen any circling roots.
- Place in the hole.
- Backfill with soil.
- Water thoroughly.
- Mulch.
Ongoing Care:
- Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, it is very drought-tolerant.
- Fertilizing: Minimal fertilization is needed. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.
- Pruning: Cut back the foliage to the ground in late winter or early spring. This is essential for L. spicata to remove old, tattered foliage and encourage fresh growth.
- Controlling Spread (Important!): Because L. spicata spreads aggressively, you may need to control its spread to prevent it from encroaching on other areas. This can be done by:
- Edging: Install a physical barrier, such as edging (metal, plastic, or concrete), at least 4-6 inches deep, to contain the rhizomes.
- Manual Removal: Dig up any unwanted runners that extend beyond the desired area.
- Container Planting: If you want to limit its spread, consider planting L. spicata in containers.
- Dividing: While division is not usually necessary for plant health, you can divide L. spicata easily to propagate new plants or to manage its size. The best time is in early spring or fall.
- Pests and Diseases: Generally, pest and disease-free. Root rot can be a problem in poorly drained soil.
Liriope spicata is a rapidly spreading, shade-loving groundcover suitable for erosion control and large area coverage. Its aggressive growth necessitates careful selection of planting location. Plant bare root Liriope in the fall or early spring, ensuring the crown is level with the soil. Prune foliage in late winter or early spring and consider edging to manage its spread effectively.
Liriope spicata, also called Creeping Lilyturf, is a fast-spreading, evergreen ground cover known for its dense, grass-like foliage and ability to thrive in shady areas. It features spikes of lavender flowers in summer and produces black berries in the fall. While it is an excellent choice for erosion control and covering large areas, it can be invasive due to its vigorous spreading habit.