Liriope spicata 'Silver Dragon'
Silver Dragon Spike Lilyturf
Liriope spicata ‘Silver Dragon’ (Variegated Creeping Lilyturf) is an evergreen, grass-like perennial with a spreading, groundcover habit. It features narrow arching leaves striped silver-white and green, with pale lavender to whitish flower spikes in late summer that may be followed by dark berries. This selection is especially valued for brightening shady areas with its variegated foliage, but like the species, it spreads by rhizomes and is better suited to massing than tight clumps.
Type: Perennial
Mature Size: 15–18" W × 8–12" H
USDA Zones: 6a–11
Form: Spreading, arching groundcover
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Well-drained, average to humus-rich soils; moderate water, prefers even moisture during establishment but tolerates some drought once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late summer; moderate (about 3–4 weeks)
Wildlife: Bees; berries provide minor seasonal interest
Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for edging, mass plantings, erosion control, and groundcover in sun to shade. The silver-striped foliage helps light up darker beds and contrasts well with darker foliage plants. It is useful under trees and in broad sweeps, though it can spread beyond its original planting area over time.
Care:
Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Divide or thin as needed to control spread. Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly until established; extra water may be needed in full sun or drought.
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 8-12''
- Width
- 15-18"
- Hardiness zones
- 6–11
- Sunlight
- Full Sun, Partial Shade
- Growth rate
- Fast
- Bloom time
- Early Fall, Late Summer
- Flower color
- Sea Shell
- Leaf color
- SeaGreen, White
- Attracts
- Bees
- Soil
- Average, Rich, Well Drained
- Landscape use
- Border, Container, Mass Planting, Rock Garden
- Shape
- Arching, Clumping
- Fruit
- Yes
- Deer resistant
- Yes
- Drought tolerant
- No
