Creeping Lily Turf (Liriope spicata): Spreading Evergreen Grass-Like Plant

Creeping lily turf, also called lilyturf or monkey grass, is a rhizomatous, grass-like perennial with narrow, dark green, arching leaves. It spreads aggressively to form a dense, evergreen ground cover. Spikes of pale lavender to white flowers appear in late summer, followed by black berries.

Botanical Profile

This tough plant tolerates sun to deep shade, drought, and a wide range of soils. It's widely used for erosion control, edging, and as a lawn alternative in difficult sites. Can be invasive; the clumping species (L. muscari) is often preferred for gardens.