Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' (lilyturf 'Big Blue') — Clump-forming

Overview

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' is a clump-forming perennial in the genus Liriope, part of the Asparagaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall. Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include groundcover, borders and edging. It is native to East Asia.

About the genus

Liriope is a genus of low, grass-like flowering plants from East and Southeast Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Liriope (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Liriope (plant)

In the garden

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' is a clump-forming perennial from East Asia, valued for its narrow, strap-like leaves and lilac-purple flower spikes that appear from August to October. Plants reach about 0.3 m and are used where a low, grass-like texture is required in the border. Place Liriope in full sun on sandy or loamy soils with good drainage; the cultivar will tolerate soils that remain moist provided water does not sit around the roots. It carries a UK hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy across British gardens; its USDA range of 5–10 indicates similar cold tolerance for those comparing climates. Keep soil reasonably free-draining and avoid waterlogged planting sites. Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' works well as a ground cover between shrubs, a neat edging for paths or borders, or to fill narrow strips where a low perennial is needed. Plant in groups for best effect so the lilac-purple spikes are noticeable from August through October, and expect tidy 0.3 m clumps that provide structure around seasonal planting.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Liriope

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: North-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Habit: Clump-forming
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 0.3 m
Suggested uses: groundcover, borders, edging
Native to: East Asia

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'

Cultivation: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; water regularly during establishment; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Pruning: cut back old foliage in early spring
Propagation: division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'?

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; water regularly during establishment; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Where is the best place to plant Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'?

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' need?

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'?

Cut back old foliage in early spring.

How big does Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' grow?

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' reaches a height of 0.3 m.

Is Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' hardy in the UK?

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.