About Liriope As Ground Cover
Traditionally, liriope, or "monkey grass," has been used as a border for lawns and gardens, but it can create a lovely, practical ground cover. It spreads easily, is drought tolerant and requires little care. Does this Spark an idea?
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Basics
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If you live in Planting Zones 4 through 10, there is at least one variety of liriope that will thrive in your yard. Liriope are tolerant of wet or dry soil, and are not prone to damage by insects or disease.
Liriope Muscari
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Liriope muscari is the most common variety of the liriope. This plant flourishes in Zones 6 through 10. Liriope muscari grows to a height of 18 to 24 inches. It features narrow, dark leaves and comes in a variety of shades.
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Variegated Liriope
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Variegated liriope grows well in Zones 6 through 10. The leaves can reach a height of up to two feet. Blue and white flowers appear in high summer, followed by dark blue berries in the fall. It is the most tolerant variety of liriope, as it can live well in full or partial sun.
Liriope Spicata
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Also known as "creeping liriope," the liriope spicata thrives in Zones 4 through 9. Its leaves reach a height of 18 inches. It produces purple flowers in the fall, and the dark green leaves turn silvery-green during the winter. Creeping liriope requires partial shade or shade.
Ophiopogon Japonicus
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While not true liriope, this "mondo grass" as it is commonly known is similar in appearance and requires like growing conditions. It does well in Zones 6 through 9. Ophiopogon Japonicus only averages 6 to 9 inches in height. It produces deep green leaves and it will grow under full sun or shade. It is a slower grower than the liriope.
Caring for Liriope
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In late winter, mow your liriope ground cover with your mower blades set high. This will encourage new growth. Fertilize annually and apply a thick layer of mulch to both liriope and mondo grass for healthy, lush ground cover.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Luz
