Liriope muscari 'SILVER DRAGON' border grass, lily-turf
size/type
low or groundcovering,low perennial
usual height
0,2-0,4m
usual width
0,3-0,6m
leaves
evergreen broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
less showy but noticeable
colour of flowers
blooming time
August-October
location
semi-shade to shade
soil type
any (acidic to alkaline)
soil moisture requirements
evenly moist but well-drained
USDA zone (lowest)
7 (down to -23°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Lily-turf is a unique evergreen perennial that is often sold in grass sections of garden centres. However, it belongs to the lily family, hence its name. It comes from shady forests of Eastern Asia where it makes amazing groundcovers.
Description of the plant:
Silver Dragon lily-turf was discovered as a spontaneous mutation of the species. It is valued for its ability to maintain its foliage variegation without reversing to the original green colour. The ribbon-like leaves are evergreen, striped white and green, elegantly arching, and forming neat cushions. They do not usually suffer from pests like the leaves of other fleshy or evergreen perennials. From late August appear about 30 cm tall stems with spike-like inflorescences with small, pale lavender violet flowers. Flowering is neither frequent nor dense but is not essential as this variety is cultivated mainly for its unique leaf color. It brightens up semi-shaded and shady borders where it can be combined with other low-growing perennials or ferns. It slowly spreads by short stolons but cannot be considered invasive such as its close relative liriope spicata.Liriope does well in moist, humus-rich, and preferably acid to neutral soil, but will tolerate almost any well-drained soil. It does best in partial shade, and lives well in full sun, too, if adequate moisture is provided, as well as in deep shade where flowering may be limited. Mulching is recommended in frost prone areas. In case the leaves look exhausted and unsightly after a strong winter cut them off about 5 cm above ground level in spring, not lower. Hardy to min. -25 °C.
Last update 24-03-2024
