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TheLiriopegenus includes grass-like floweringperennial plantsnative to parts of Asia.
Two common species in the United States,L.
muscari(also called lilyturf) andL.
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Flower spikes are lavender or white, blooming from August to September.
Liriope can be planted from spring to fall generally from nursery plants or divisions.
Some types grow larger and spread quicker than others but watering and fertilizer affect growth rates.
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The only “must-have” is that liriope grows in well-draining soil.
Plant each liriope about 1 foot apart, keeping in mind thatL.
spicatawill spread since it’s a creeping plant.
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It’s unnecessary to divide the plants though you might do so every three to four years.
Fertilizer will boost liriope’s growth rate and may encourage spread.
Liriope is evergreen in warmer climates and will die back in the winter in colder climates.
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Warning
L. spicataislisted as invasivein Virginia, Georgia, and North Carolina.
It’s also naturalized and problematic in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi.
In warmer climates, these plants appreciate afternoon shade.
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However, deep shade causes leggy foliage and slows the spreading.
Liriope needs about 1 inch of water per week.
Once established, liriope plants are relatively drought-tolerant and can go a little longer between watering days.
Temperature and Humidity
Liriope plants prefer moderately warm daytime temperatures, ranging between 68F to 75F.
In the coldest USDA zones, some winter protection may be necessary.
It shouldn’t need more than 1/4 cup per plant.
spicatahas narrower leaves and smaller, lighter-hued flowers.
Here are some popular cultivars of both types:
Pruning
Liriopes spread viarhizomes, and sometimes aggressively.
Remove dying flower stems and withered foliage.
Pruning Tip
Looking for the best pruners for your liriope?
We tested over 10top-rated pruning shearsin our Lab to ensure your plants stay happy and healthy.
Propagating Liriope
Propagate liriope by division in the very late fall or early spring.
Divide liriope after the third growing season for best results.
Though division is not necessary for the health or longevity of the plant, it helps control spread.
Harvest seeds from the plant’s dark purple fruits in the fall.
Grow the plant in a moist, well-drained, quality general-purpose potting mix.
Go one pot size up and fill it with fresh potting soil.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Indoor liriope is vulnerable tomealybugsandaphidsthat are best treated withhorticultural oil.
Outdoors, watch forslugs and snailsfeeding on the plants.
Keep the ground free of debris and spread diatomaceous earth to repel them.
Liriope is susceptible to fungal diseases anthracnose and leaf and crown rot.
What Do Lirioipe Flowers Look and Smell Like?
Liriope flowers grow on spikes that can reach 6 to 8 inches tall.
The blooms can be lavender, purple, pink, white, or lilac-purple.
Sometimes the flowers can have a sharp, sweet scent.
Adjust growing conditions to help spur blooming.
Common Problems With Liriope
Liriope is a relatively low-maintenance plant.
It is often because of insufficient water or not enough moisture in the air.
Water the plant adequately and add a humidifier to increase humidity around the plant.
Leaf Scarring
Slugs and snails like to chew through the liriope’s leaves.
Try homemade solutions to rid yourself of these pests without harming your plants or the environment.
Creeping liriope.The University of Georgia Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health and the National Park Service.
A field guide for the identification of invasive plants in southern forests.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station.
Liriope Fact Sheet.Clemson University Extension Home & Garden Information Center.
Key Plant, Key Pests: Lilytuf (Liriope Muscari).
University of Florida, IFAS Extension.
