Liriope Varieties
- Liriope muscari is a clumping plant that grows in a tuft of slender, evergreen leaves 12 to 18 inches tall. In contrast with creeping lilyturf, L. spicata, clumping lilyturf has wider leaves and larger flowers. Cultivars include Evergreen Giant, which grows the tallest, reaching 2 feet; Monroe’s White, which produces white flowers and grows to 1 foot; Silvery Sunproof, which tolerates more sun than most cultivars and has white and yellow striped leaves; and Samantha, which has green leaves and pink flowers.
- This species of Liriope is used as a groundcover, as it spreads by tuberous underground roots. It can be used as a lawn replacement in shady sites where lawn grass doesn’t thrive. Its flowers are smaller and it grows only about 1-foot tall. Cultivars include Silver Dragon, with variegated green and white foliage and lavender flowers, and Franklin Mint, with green leaves and lavender blooms.
- Because of Liriope’s popularity in the Southeast as a groundcover, the University of Louisiana tests new varieties for landscape performance and appearance, as well as resistance to anthracnose, a fungus disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. In a 2010 report, it listed the best-performing new L. muscari varieties as Super Blue, Cleopatra, New Blue and Emerald Goddess, all dark green varieties.
- The care for both species of Liriope is the same, although L. spicata can become invasive, so it should be used where hardscape edges or barriers will stop its spread. Both prefer a shady, moist site in acidic soil and will not tolerate foot traffic. When planting, amend the soil with a commercial acidic planting mix, compost or peat moss. Water regularly to establish and fertilize in spring and late summer with an organic slow-release all-purpose fertilizer. Liriope can be mowed in spring before new growth emerges.