Species

Liriope muscariLilyturf

16 other cultivars

perennial

Big Blue Lilyturf

Liriope muscari 'Amethyst'

The Story

Plant Bio

Liriope muscari is an evergreen, tuberous-rooted perennial forming dense, structural clumps of arching, strap-like leaves. Erect, slender spikes of tiered flower whorls rise above the dark green foliage in late summer, followed by dark blue-black berries.

'Amethyst' is a patented, sterile selection distinguished by its ultra-compact growth habit and deep violet-purple flower spikes held exceptionally high above the foliage canopy. The glossy foliage retains its dark green color through the winter months better than older wild forms.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round structural definition with glossy, dark green foliage and erect, deep violet-purple flower spikes.

Serves as an effective, non-invasive groundcover or border edging that suppresses weeds and tolerates heavy shade and drought.

Offers nectar for bees and beneficial insects, and occasional forage for hummingbirds and songbirds.

SpeciesLiriope muscariLilyturf

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18"

Width

18"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Autumn

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Plant in well-drained soil in any exposure from full sun to deep shade, ensuring the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, drought-tolerant root system.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base of the clump to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Mow or cut the foliage back to the ground in late winter to make room for clean, fresh spring growth.

Pro Tip

Cut the entire clump back to ground level once a year in late winter before the spring flush emerges; shearing the foliage mid-season or trimming it into rounded balls results in patchy, stunted growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Cut the foliage back to the ground in late winter before new shoots appear.
Plant in well-drained beds to prevent crown and root rot.
Apply a light application of slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Don't

Do not allow the soil to remain waterlogged or sit in standing water.
Do not prune or shear the foliage during the active summer growing season.
Do not plant the crown too deep, which invites fungal rot.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Border EdgingMass PlantingUnderstory PlantingGroundcoverErosion Control

Companion Plants

Carex cherokeensis Hosta Heuchera Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Big Blue Lilyturf questions

What zones can Big Blue Lilyturf grow in?

Big Blue Lilyturf is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Big Blue Lilyturf deer resistant?

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

When does Big Blue Lilyturf bloom?

Big Blue Lilyturf typically blooms in late summer through autumn. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Big Blue Lilyturf need full sun?

Big Blue Lilyturf does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Big Blue Lilyturf drought tolerant?

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