Taxonomy of Border Grass (AKA Lilyturf, Liriope):
Plant taxonomy classifies border grass as Liriope spicata. Another common name for the plant is "lilyturf." But since its genus name, Liriope is also often used virtually as a common name for this perennial, below I will simply refer to it by its scientific name.
Plant Type:
Liriope spicata plants are herbaceous to semi-evergreen (depending on location) perennials. They are treated as an ornamental grass, even though they have traditionally been considered a member of the Lily family, as the common name, "lilyturf" suggests (more recently, they have been placed in the Ruscaceae family). In terms of landscaping use, they are employed as a ground cover.
Characteristics of Liriope Spicata:
The blades of Liriope spicata reach, at most, 1' in height. Liriope spicata has a spikey flower, ranging in color from white to lavender. In autumn, it bears a dark berry. It is a deer-resistant plant.
Sun and Soil Requirements for Liriope Spicata:
Liriope spicata can be grown in partial shade, although it doubles as a sun-plant. It profits from water, but as long as you plant Liriope spicata in partial shade, it will tolerate drier conditions. Either way, it needs well-drained soil.
Planting Zones for Liriope Spicata:
Liriope spicata can be grown in zones 4-10.
Plant Care for Liriope Spicata:
Liriope spicata is a vigorous grower (see below). Keep after it if you want to restrict it to one area. Set up barriers to its spread using landscape edging and/or dig it up if it spreads where you don't want it. If you wish to use this plant as a ground cover in multiple area of your landscaping, you can divide and transplant. Spring is listed as the best season for dividing.
Caveat in Growing Liriope Spicata:
Liriope spicata plants spread via rhizomes, and are vigorous growers, to the point of being considered invasive plants.
Uses for Liriope Spicata in Landscape Design:
Like many ground covers, two of the common uses for Liriope spicata are for erosion-prevention and weed control.
