Plant Type

Ground cover, Perennial, Bulb, Grass

 

Height Range

Under 1'

 

Flower Color

Lavender

 

Flower Season

Fall

 

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Half, Shade

 

Water

Medium

 

Growth Rate

Moderate, Slow

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam

 

Soil Condition

Average, Rich, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

English Cottage, Formal, Japanese, Mediterranean, Tropical, Woodland

 

Accenting Features

Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Foundation, Walkways

 

Special Uses

Cut Flowers, Filler, Small Spaces

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

This little plant isn't a true grass but is actually in the Lily family. Lilyturf is a perennial with grass-like foliage that is deep green, grows in clumps, and spreads by rhizomes. Produces dense spikes of deep lilac flowers, usually early to late fall. It is also generally listed as being evergreen. Given our climate, lilyturf frequently doesn't flower as it gets too cold, and is semi-evergreen. But it's worth a gamble as it is a lovely addition to a dry shade area, even if it never blooms. Grows around 6 inches tall and wide.

Lilyturf does not like wet soil or frost, as the leaf tips will turn brown or yellow. It does best in half sun (morning sun is ideal). Some sources list it as being hardy to USDA Zone 6, others list it in Zone 7. It's worth a chance, as the foliage is amazing with heuchera, hosta, and lamium. As an added bonus, deer and rabbits don't bother it.