Liriope spicata (Creeping Lily Turf)

Liriope spicata (Creeping Lily Turf) is a rhizomatous, semi-evergreen perennial forming a dense clump of narrow, arching, dark green leaves, up to 18-inches long (45 cm) turning to bronze-green in winter. In late summer and early fall, erect spikes with tiny pale lavender or white flowers appear among the leaves. The blooms give way to blue-black berries. Tolerant of salt spray, heat, drought, and heavy shade, Creeping Lily Turf will spread quickly by underground rhizomes to form colonies. A useful plant for dry shade, it will grow well as erosion control on banks and slopes or as edging underneath trees or around shrubs where nothing else will grow. Native to East Asia, Creeping Lily Turf is evergreen in warm winter areas.

• Grows up to 10-18 in. tall (25-45 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm). Its dense mat-forming habit can crowd out native species.
• Performs best in light, moderately fertile, preferably acid, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Drought tolerant once established
• Creeping Lily Turf can be used as a edging plant for walks, and paths, and looks lovely in mass plantings or as a ground cover. This is also an excellent choice along streams and ponds, or for erosion control, as it can help stabilize soil on banks or slopes.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Mow in early spring to remove old foliage.
• Propagate by seed or division in spring,
• Native to China, Vietnam, and Japan.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.