Ground coverLiriope muscari
Lily Turf
Lily Turf is a robust evergreen ground cover with grass-like dark green foliage and striking purple flower spikes in late summer. The plant forms dense clumps that suppress weeds effectively. After flowering, decorative black berries appear and persist through winter.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade, Full shade
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 20–40 cm
- Spread
- 30–45 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 6–10
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- purple
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade to full shade in well-drained soil. The plant is surprisingly drought-tolerant once established and handles root competition from trees. Water moderately in the first growing year. Barely any feeding needed — a light compost layer in spring suffices.
Pruning tips
Cut back old foliage short in early spring before new growth appears. This gives the plant a fresh start. Divide overcrowded clumps every three to four years in spring.
Good companions
PerennialsHosta sieboldiana
Hosta
Hosta is the quintessential shade plant, valued for its large, blue-green, ribbed leaves. Light purple or white bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stems in July and August. Over the years the plant forms substantial clumps that give a shaded border a lush character.
ClimbersHedera helix
Common Ivy
Common Ivy is an evergreen climber that uses aerial roots to cover walls, fences, and trees. Its dark green, glossy leaves provide year-round greenery. Mature plants flower in autumn with inconspicuous green-yellow blooms that are an important late food source for bees and insects.
Ground coverOphiopogon planiscapus
Black Mondo Grass
Black Mondo Grass is a striking ground cover with nearly black, grass-like foliage that is unique in the plant world. Small white to light purple flowers appear in summer, followed by glossy black berries. The plant is evergreen and provides a stunning contrast with light-coloured neighbours.