Border Grass: Liriope Spicata

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 for Liriope Spicata: Liriope spicata plants are herbaceous perennials. They are treated as an ornamental grass, even though they are actually a member of the lily family (as the common name, "lilyturf" suggests). 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.

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.