groundcover

Porcupine Grass

Liriope longipedicellata 'Porcupine'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

72 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Tolerates a range

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Miscanthus sinensis is a clump-forming ornamental grass prized for its graceful, arching foliage and feathery, tassel-like flower plumes that appear in late summer. 'Porcupine' is a distinctive cultivar noted for its stiff, upright habit and green leaves that are horizontally banded with golden-yellow, resembling porcupine quills. It provides excellent vertical interest and winter structure.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides evergreen interest with attractive purple foliage and grass-like texture, enhancing borders and groundcovers.

Drought-tolerant and deer resistant, reducing maintenance needs.

Supports insect diversity and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
Mist cuttings to promote root growth
Plant in a location with partial to full sun
Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer
Mulch around plants to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Prune dead foliage in early spring
Apply a balanced fertilizer annually
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Ignore pruning dead leaves
Use heavy clay soil without amendment
Plant in full shade for best growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged hedgeVanilla-scented borderEvergreen groundcover

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Heuchera Japanese forest grass Coral bells

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Porcupine Grass questions

What zones can Porcupine Grass grow in?

Porcupine Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Porcupine Grass deer resistant?

Yes — Porcupine Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Porcupine Grass bloom?

Porcupine Grass typically blooms in late summer to fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Porcupine Grass need full sun?

Porcupine Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Porcupine Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Porcupine Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.