Liriope, known as lilyturf or monkey grass, is a popular groundcover in landscaping due to its resilience, tolerance for varying light conditions, and low maintenance needs. This grass-like perennial forms dense clumps of foliage, making it a reliable choice for borders and mass plantings. For many home gardeners, the primary consideration is how well new plants will fare against local deer populations.
Liriope’s Deer Resistance Rating
Liriope is consistently classified as a highly deer-resistant plant across horticultural and agricultural extension ratings. This means deer generally avoid browsing it when other, more palatable food sources are available. The Rutgers Cooperative Extension lists Liriope as a plant “seldom severely damaged” by deer. The two most common species, Liriope muscari (clumping) and Liriope spicata (spreading), both share this high resistance level. However, no plant is completely deer-proof. Deer are opportunistic herbivores, meaning they may still sample it or consume it under certain conditions.
Understanding Why Deer Avoid Liriope
Deer typically bypass Liriope due to the plant’s physical structure and its internal chemistry. The foliage itself is a major deterrent, possessing a tough, leathery texture that is not appealing to a deer’s palate. Deer prefer soft, succulent new growth, making the fibrous, strap-like leaves of mature Liriope a low-priority food source. Beyond the uninviting texture, the plant contains naturally occurring chemical compounds that contribute to its unpalatability. Liriope species are known to contain steroidal saponins, which are bitter-tasting compounds that can cause mild digestive irritation. These saponins function as a natural defense mechanism for the plant. The combination of a tough physical structure and an unpleasant chemical taste discourages browsing animals.
External Factors That Affect Deer Foraging
Despite Liriope’s inherent resistance, reports of damage sometimes occur, explained by external factors influencing deer behavior. The most significant factor is the level of hunger or desperation within the local deer population, often driven by environmental scarcity. During periods of drought, deep snow cover, or late winter when preferred forage is depleted, deer become far less selective and will consume plants they would normally ignore. Regional differences also play a role, as the dietary habits of deer can shift based on the availability of local native vegetation. Young or newly planted Liriope is always more vulnerable than established plants. Tender new shoots or the soft foliage of a recent transplant are more appealing than the tough, mature leaves. Deer may also engage in “taste-testing,” which can result in visible damage even if the deer ultimately decides to move on.
Protecting Liriope and Other Landscape Plants
For gardeners facing high deer pressure, supplementing Liriope’s natural resistance with active protection is a practical strategy. One of the simplest methods involves using commercial deer repellents, which utilize scent or taste to make the foliage objectionable. These products often contain ingredients like putrescent egg solids or capsaicin, and they must be reapplied periodically, particularly after heavy rain, to maintain effectiveness. Strategic placement is another effective technique, as deer are less likely to venture near human activity. Planting Liriope close to the house or in other high-traffic areas leverages the deer’s natural wariness of people. For new plantings, temporary physical barriers, such as netting or fencing, can be used until the plants become mature. Gardeners can also employ companion planting by placing highly aromatic species near Liriope to help mask the plant’s scent and confuse the deer’s foraging senses.