It spreads quickly, thrives even in less-than-ideal conditions, and is a tough ground cover. Creeping lilyturf produces erect flower spikes of purple blooms that are followed by a blue-black berry. The plants reach approximately 10 inches tall.

Understanding the Context

Creeping lilyturf prefers partial or deep shade and soil with good drainage. This plant grows 6 to 18 inches tall with a spread of 1 to 2 feet. Though it may resemble an ornamental grass it is not a true grass. Lilyturf forms a dense, uniform cover but does not tolerate foot traffic.

Key Insights

Creeping lilyturf has white to lavender flowers which produce single-seeded berries on a spike in the fall. It is one of the most popular groundcovers in the southeastern United States and areas with a similar climate. Learn how to grow and care for Liriope spicata, the Creeping Lilyturf. Explore its resilient nature, uses in landscapes, and tips for successful growth. In this guide, you will learn how to grow and manage creeping lilyturf, also known as Liriope spicata, in a way that is simple, practical, and beginner-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Big Blue or Variegated Lily Turf (Liriope muscari) and Creeping Lilyturf (Liriope spicata) are semi-evergreen, grass like ground cover plants that grow as spreading clumps of fine, dark green or variegated leaves that turn to bronze-green in the winter. 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. Two common species in the United States— L. muscari and L. spicata— are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant ground covers planted to prevent erosion, edge beds, and control weeds. Liriope spicata is also known as creeping liriope or monkeygrass; it's named for the spiky form of its flowers.