How to Grow Big Blue Lilyturf
Wikimedia Commons
Big Blue Lilyturf
Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'
grassBig Blue Lilyturf is a vigorous, clumping ornamental grass with deep green, arching linear foliage and striking deep violet-purple flower spikes that bloom in late summer and fall. This cultivar is a larger, more robust selection than the species, making it an excellent ground cover, border plant, or accent in landscapes. It is evergreen to semi-evergreen and highly valued for its reliability, low maintenance requirements, and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
When should you plant Big Blue Lilyturf in your zone?
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Example Big Blue Lilyturf timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Big Blue Lilyturf
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Big Blue Lilyturf
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Big Blue Lilyturf dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-11; most vigorous in zones 7-9
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Get my Big Blue Lilyturf timeline →Growth Stages
Vegetative Growth (Spring-Summer, Years 1-2)
6-8 weeksDense, arching linear foliage emerges in rich dark green color; plant expands and fills in.
Water during drought; fertilize lightly in spring if desired. Remove winter-damaged foliage in early spring before new growth.
Flowering (Late Summer-Fall)
8-12 weeksTall, dense spikes of small violet-purple flowers emerge above the foliage, attracting pollinators.
Maintain consistent moisture to support prolific flowering. Deadhead spent flowers if desired, though persistent seed heads add fall/winter interest.
Seed Development & Winter Dormancy
4-6 monthsFlowers fade to dark seed heads; foliage remains evergreen to semi-evergreen depending on climate and severity of winter.
Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife food. Cut back to 2-3 inches in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Remove debris where they hide; use copper barriers or slug bait; encourage natural predators like ground beetles.
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Increase humidity via misting; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe; prune heavily infested growth.
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering and crowding; remove affected plants and amend soil before replanting.
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Remove affected foliage; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if widespread.
Uses
Pollinator & Bird Food
WildlifeThe abundant late-season flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators when many other plants have finished blooming. The persistent seed heads provide food for birds throughout fall and winter. [source]
Landscaping & Ground Cover
HouseholdExcellent for borders, mass plantings, erosion control, and as a ground cover in difficult sites. The dense, attractive foliage provides year-round structure and color in the landscape. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
HouseholdOnce established, Big Blue Lilyturf requires minimal supplemental water, making it ideal for xeriscaping, water-conservation landscapes, and challenging dry sites with poor soil. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftThe attractive purple flower spikes can be cut for fresh or dried flower arrangements, providing long-lasting color and texture in floral designs. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not harvested. For ornamental purposes, deadhead spent flower spikes if desired for tidiness, but allow some to persist for fall/winter interest and bird food. Cut back entire plant to 2-3 inches above ground in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite being called a 'grass,' Liriope is not a true grass—it's a monocot in the Asparagaceae family (same family as asparagus) and is sometimes called 'lily-turf' due to its grass-like foliage and lily-like flowers.
- 🌱 Big Blue Lilyturf is highly tolerant of difficult conditions including compacted soil, air pollution, and salt spray, making it popular in urban and coastal landscapes.
- 🌱 The cultivar 'Big Blue' produces noticeably larger flower spikes and more vigorous growth than the species Liriope muscari, making it superior for ornamental display.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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