Liriope (Monkey Grass) Care & Growing Zones
About Liriope
Big Blue is an improved version of liriope often used as edging. Evergreen. At maturity the plants are 12-16″ tall and wide. It has beautiful spikes of blue violet flowers in late summer and those are followed by black berries. Big Blue is a wonderful edging plant in beds and borders, and can be used as a filler in container arrangements.Propagation & Planting
Although the plant is happiest in acidic soil, it will do well in any soil conditions and in part sun to shade. Propagation is easily accomplished by division. Simply use a shovel or knife to divide the plants and move the cut portion to a new location. Good in containers. The plant spreads by underground runners and little bublets, but can be kept to an area with a little attention.
Plant Care
Very little care is needed for these tough plants. Water weekly until established and then forget about them.
Fertilize
Slow-release fertilizer should be provided during the first two seasons. Supplemental fertilizer may be considered optional for established beds that have been prepared with added organic matter. Slow-release balanced 10-10-10 products may be applied to promote optimal growth.
Prune
Remove old foilage in spring before new leaves appear, or snip brown blades off as needed.
Pests & Disease
Usually a very durable plant, but can occasionally be taken down by crown rot, a strain of fungus Phytophthora. Evidence is yellowing of leaves and a flattening of the entire plant. If this fungus occurs, there is not much that can be done other than remove the plants and do not plant more liriope in that location because the fungus remains in the soil. The fungus is specific to these plants so if you must remove them, it is fine to place other plants in that area. Occasionally slugs will be present, but usually are not an issue to the life of the plants.
Attracts
Resistances
Tolerances
Poisonous
Liriope FAQs
How much sun and water does Liriope need?
Liriope grows in part sun (4 to 6 hours) to full shade, needs medium water and grows well in loam. It is hardy in USDA zones 5A to 10B.
When should I cut back Liriope?
Remove the old foliage in spring before new leaves appear, or snip off brown blades as needed.
Is Liriope toxic to pets?
PlantTAGG lists Liriope as poisonous to humans and toxic to pets and animals. If you think a pet has eaten part of the plant, call your veterinarian.
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