Big Blue Lilyturf is an evergreen perennial endemic to East Asia. Comparable to grape hyacinths, this plant has velvety, lush foliage and abundant lavender-blue spikes with black berries blooming next to it. It is a famous, enticing plant that looks especially good at sloping waterways. This low-maintenance plant is excellent for ground cover and edging.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Mostly grown for its attractive foliage, Liriope muscari ‘Big Blue’ is an evergreen tuberous perennial forming a dense clump of narrow, arching, dark green, strappy leaves. Blooming in late summer, erect spikes of thickly clustered, small lilac-purple flowers appear above the leaves. They resemble grape hyacinth (Muscari), hence the Latin name.
The blooms give way to round, shiny, black berries, which often persist into winter. Hardy and compact, Lily Turf is a popular foliage plant, particularly handsome when grown in large swaths or undulating rivers. Liriope muscari can be used as a lawn grass substitute too. One of the most prized characteristics of this plant is that it does very well in dry shade.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Big blue lilyturf thrives best in partial sun, receiving a mix of light and shade throughout the day. This ideal light balance promotes robust growth and enhances flowering capabilities. While big blue lilyturf is versatile, tolerating both full sun and full shade, deviations can impact its vigor. In full sun, big blue lilyturf may experience leaf scorch, while full shade could lead to reduced flowering and sparse growth. Therefore, outdoor planting should prioritize spots that offer filtered sunlight or dappled shade to maintain optimal health and appearance.
Temperature
Big blue lilyturf exhibits remarkable tolerance to temperature variations. It can withstand cold down to 0℃ (32℉) and heat up to 43℃ (110℉). This resilience allows it to thrive in diverse climates, but extreme conditions necessitate caution. In cold weather, big blue lilyturf may experience leaf discoloration and wilting, while heat stress can cause leaf burn and reduced growth. Protective measures include mulching during frosts and ample watering and shade during heatwaves. Understanding these tolerances aids in providing appropriate care, ensuring big blue lilyturf remains healthy and vibrant across different environmental conditions.
Watering
Thriving in its native humid woodlands, big blue lilyturf has adapted to a consistent moisture level, favoring soil that remains evenly damp without becoming waterlogged. Its preference for humidity indicates a moderate tolerance for brief dry spells, but it generally requires a steady supply of water to maintain its lush foliage. Accordingly, it should be watered every week to sustain its hydration needs. Big blue lilyturf is typically cultivated as an ornamental ground cover outdoors where it can benefit from natural rainfall patterns and the surrounding ecosystem’s microclimate, enhancing its resilience during varying weather conditions.
Soil
Big blue lilyturf isn’t picky about soil. The most important thing is that your soil is well-drained. If you have heavy wet soil, you can amend it with compost and/or sphagnum peat moss to improve drainage. Big blue lilyturf will tolerate sandy and clay soils, and thrives in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal.
When growing in a container, select a pot that is 5 gallons or more and has drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting soil.
Fertilizing
For big blue lilyturf, a balanced nutrition fertilizer promotes robust growth and vibrant blooms. Fertilize moderately in spring with a 10-10-10 formula at a rate of 1/2 pound per 100 square feet. Repeat in early fall. Over-fertilization can harm big blue lilyturf’s root system, so adhere strictly to recommended amounts. During dormant winter months, cease fertilization. Young big blue lilyturfs benefit from more frequent, lighter feedings to establish themselves. Always water big blue lilyturf thoroughly after fertilizing to distribute nutrients and avoid root burn.
Pruning
Big blue lilyturf is a low-maintenance, evergreen groundcover known for its tufted grass-like foliage and spikes of purple flowers. Prune big blue lilyturf in early spring to remove old, tattered leaves and promote fresh growth. Cut back the foliage to a height of 2-3 inches before new shoots appear. Regular pruning prevents fungal issues and maintains a tidy appearance. Ensure clean, sharp tools to avoid damage and disease.
Propagation
Big blue lilyturf, an ornamental grass-like perennial, benefits from the straightforward propagation method of division. Gardeners should choose healthy mature clumps, gently separate them into smaller sections, ensuring each has a portion of the root system. Replant swiftly into well-preparing soil, maintaining appropriate moisture levels to encourage root establishment. Careful handling of the roots and avoidance of excessively deep planting will yield optimal growth.
Transplanting
The best time to transplant big blue lilyturf is during the early to mid-spring months, ensuring a healthy root establishment. Choose a well-draining location with partial to full shade for optimal growth. Remember to keep the soil moist and maintain a friendly tone when handling the plant!
Overwintering
Hailing from East Asia’s woodland areas, big blue lilyturf is well-adjusted to cool winters. It enters a dormant state, showcasing thick, evergreen leaves and a robust root system offering frost resistance. Gardeners need to ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot from winter wetness. Applying a protective winter mulch safeguards against extreme cold. So, despite its tropical origin, big blue lilyturf thrives in its frosty slumber, emanating beauty throughout the winter!
Repotting
Repot big blue lilyturf every 2-3 years to accommodate its clumping growth, which typically doesn’t exceed a foot in height. Spring repotting aligns with its active growth phase. Upsize the pot by 2-4 inches to allow for root expansion. Ensure the new container has ample drainage. After repotting, water thoroughly and place in indirect light to help big blue lilyturf settle into its new home.
III. Uses and Benefits
Big blue lilyturf is a popular garden perennial prized for its tufted foliage and multiple blue flower spikes. It is commonly used as a border plant around hedges and is an essential plant in flower gardens when a low-growing natural hedge is needed. Plant it with coneflowers or hostas to add texture and contrast.