Liriope muscari ‘Aztec Grass’ is a popular perennial used for edging and groundcover, known for its striking variegated foliage of green and silver-white stripes. This plant, often called lilyturf or border grass, is favored by gardeners for its durability and neat appearance in the landscape. The question of whether it spreads is a common concern for those selecting plants for defined garden spaces or borders.
Understanding the Growth Habit of Aztec Grass
The answer to whether Aztec Grass spreads depends on how one defines “spread,” but it is generally classified as a non-aggressive plant. Aztec Grass is a clumping variety of Liriope muscari, meaning it grows outward slowly by expanding the size of its central mass. This growth pattern contrasts with other varieties, like Liriope spicata, which are known as running liriope.
Clumping liriope varieties, including ‘Aztec Grass’, utilize very short, underground stems called rhizomes, which remain close to the main plant. These short rhizomes allow the plant to increase in diameter gradually, forming a dense, self-contained mound over time. A single clump of Aztec Grass may eventually reach a width of 12 to 24 inches, but this expansion is slow and predictable.
In comparison, running liriope varieties spread aggressively through long rhizomes that can quickly send up new shoots several feet away from the parent plant. The clumping nature of ‘Aztec Grass’ prevents this unwanted, fast-spreading behavior, making it a preferred choice for borders and defined areas where a tidy appearance is desired. Because it is a moderate grower and not a rampant spreader, it rarely out-competes nearby companion plants.
Managing and Dividing Aztec Grass Clumps
While Aztec Grass does not run, its clumping nature means that the original plant will eventually become very dense and may require division to maintain its health and vigor. Overcrowded clumps can begin to grow poorly, showing a decline in overall health and foliage quality.
The best time to divide the clumps is during the plant’s dormant period, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This timing minimizes shock and allows the new divisions to establish roots quickly once the growing season starts. Gardeners should use a sharp spade or knife to dig up the entire clump and then cleanly cut the root mass into smaller sections.
Each new section must have a healthy portion of roots and foliage to ensure successful replanting. The separated divisions should be replanted immediately, positioning the crown—the point where the roots meet the leaves—just below the soil surface. Division every two to three years is generally sufficient to rejuvenate crowded plants and provide new stock for other areas of the garden.
Routine maintenance also involves cutting back the foliage annually to refresh the plant’s appearance. In late winter, before the new spring shoots emerge, the old, often tattered, evergreen leaves should be sheared or mowed down to a height of about three inches. This practice allows the new, vibrant foliage to emerge unhindered.
Optimal Conditions for Planting
Aztec Grass is an adaptable perennial that thrives across a wide range of climates, performing well in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 10. While it is tolerant of varied conditions, providing the right environment ensures the most robust growth and vibrant foliage color. The plant is versatile in its light requirements, flourishing in both partial shade and full shade.
In regions with intense summer heat, particularly in zones 9 and 10, planting Aztec Grass in a location that receives afternoon shade is advisable to prevent leaf scorching. Conversely, while it tolerates full sun, the striking white variegation of the foliage may be brighter in shadier spots.
Soil quality is also an important factor, with the plant performing best in well-drained soil. Although Aztec Grass is not particular about soil type or pH, consistently wet conditions can lead to root issues. It is moderately drought-tolerant once its root system is fully established, usually after the first year.
During the initial growing season, regular watering is necessary to help the plant establish a strong root system. After establishment, supplemental irrigation is typically only required during extended periods of drought. Adding organic matter to the planting area, such as compost, can improve soil structure and moisture retention without compromising drainage.