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Mark Kane
Liliaceae
Liriope spicata
Creeping Lilyturf, Spike Lilyturf
Most consider the vigorous, spreading, semi-evergreen creeping lilyturf an indispensable groundcover for shade. This hardy perennial originates from eastern Asia. It forms dense, spreading clumps that look almost grassy in appearance.
The foliage is linear, flattened and deep green. In late summer to fall lilyturf bears short leafless stems lined with pale lavender-violet or white flowers. These are only marginally attractive because they are partially masked by the dense foliage. The blooms are followed by black berry-like fruit that persists into winter.
Creeping lilyturf thrives in partial sun to shade and fertile well-drained average soil. As a groundcover it is very tolerant of root competition from trees, though it can become quite aggressive if not maintained and kept in bounds. In fact, this lilyturf has naturalized in several regions of the United States and is considered invasive.
There are quite a few cultivars of Liriope spicata, many of which are variegated forms. One of the most impressive is the beautiful silvery white and green-leaved 'Silver Dragon.'
12 - 1
6 - 10
H1, H2, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Perennial
Partial Sun, Partial Shade, Full Shade
8"-10" / 20.3cm - 25.4cm
3'-4' / 0.9m - 1.2m
Late Summer, Early Fall
Asia, China, Japan
Acidic, Neutral
Average
Clay, Loam, Sand
Very Fast
Average Water
Thicket/Colonizing
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Showy
White, Lavender, Violet
Dark Blue, Black
Green, Dark Green
No
Single
Yes
Fine
Matte
Semi-Evergreen
Cutflower, Edging, Groundcover
Sometimes
Birds, Butterflies
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