Liriope spicata is a dense spreading ground cover prized for its arching grass like foliage and spikes of lavender to purple flowers in late summer. Often called creeping lilyturf, it forms vigorous colonies that provide year round texture and erosion control.
Height & Spread: 10 - 15 in x 12 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to full shade
Soil Preference: Adaptable to a variety of soils; prefers moist, well drained soil but tolerates clay and dry conditions
Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant
Native Status
Liriope spicata is native to East Asia, including China and Vietnam. Widely used in ornamental landscapes for its adaptability and evergreen ground cover qualities.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Attracts small native bees and honeybees to its late summer flower spikes when few other plants are in bloom.
Beneficial Insects
- Its dense foliage offers shelter for ground beetles and predatory insects that help control pests in shaded garden beds.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart for quick mat formation and full coverage in mass plantings or erosion control zones.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for slopes, under trees, shaded walkways, and between stepping stones. Effective for suppressing weeds and reducing soil runoff in hard to plant areas.
Companion Plants
- Ajuga reptans (Bugleweed) - Offers bold foliage colors and spring blooms that contrast well with Liriope’s grassy form.
- Dryopteris marginalis (Marginal Wood Fern) - Pairs well in woodland settings with complementary form and moisture preferences.
- Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea) - Provides upright structure and large summer blooms above the low arching sedge.
- Carex oshimensis 'Evergold' - Brings variegated foliage and similar cultural needs for a layered evergreen ground layer.
- Hosta 'Francee' - Adds large green and white variegated leaves that provide dramatic texture contrast in shade gardens.