4 Best Liriope Companion Plants + 3 Bad Companions

In this article, we will explore the world of Liriope companion plants, providing insights on selecting the ideal partners and avoiding common planting mistakes. Liriope, also known as lilyturf, is a versatile and visually appealing plant that can enhance the beauty of any garden or landscape. By carefully choosing liriope companion plants, you can create stunning combinations that will transform your outdoor space into a captivating haven. So, let’s dive in and discover the best liriope companion plants!

Best Liriope Companion Plants

When selecting companion plants for your Liriope, it’s crucial to consider factors such as similar growing conditions, complementary colors, and compatible growth habits. By following these guidelines, you can create a harmonious and visually pleasing garden bed. Here are a few outstanding options that will complement the beauty of Liriope:

• Heuchera (Coral Bells)
• Hosta
• Astilbe
• Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa)

Heuchera (Coral Bells)

The first member of the best liriope companion plants is Cora Bells. The vibrant foliage of Heuchera, available in shades of burgundy, lime green, or silver, beautifully complements the deep green or variegated leaves of Liriope. This dynamic duo adds a striking contrast and a touch of elegance to any garden bed. The combination of Liriope’s slender, grass-like leaves with the bold, textured foliage of Heuchera creates a visually appealing blend of shapes and colors that will captivate the eye.

Hosta

Hostas are renowned for their bold and textured leaves, making them an excellent choice as liriope companion plants. When paired together, Hostas provide a beautiful canvas against which the slender, graceful foliage of Liriope can shine. The contrasting leaf shapes and colors of these two plants form a harmonious partnership, adding depth and visual interest to your garden. Whether you choose blue, green, or variegated Hosta varieties, they will undoubtedly create a stunning combination with Liriope.

Astilbe

For a soft and romantic touch in your garden, Astilbes are the perfect liriope companion plants. Their feathery plumes, available in shades of pink, red, and white, create a beautiful contrast against the lush greenery of Liriope. The delicate, airy flowers of Astilbes add a touch of grace and elegance to any garden bed, while their hues provide a captivating complement to Liriope’s foliage. Together, they create an enchanting combination that evokes a sense of beauty and serenity.

Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa)

To finish the list of the best liriope companion plants we must have a look at another special plant. To introduce movement, texture, and color into your garden, consider pairing Liriope with Japanese Forest Grass. The cascading foliage of Hakonechloa serves as a graceful companion to Liriope, creating a dynamic visual display. The gentle, arching habit of Japanese Forest Grass adds a sense of movement and softness, while its golden or variegated leaves introduce a captivating color contrast. This combination will add depth and interest to your garden, capturing attention with its delicate beauty.

What to Avoid Planting with Liriope

While Liriope is a versatile plant that blends well with many companions, there are a few varieties that may hinder its growth or clash with its visual appeal. To ensure the optimal health and aesthetic balance of your garden, here are some varieties to avoid planting alongside Liriope:

• Aggressive Spreaders
• Plants with Contrasting Growth Habits
• Overly Moisture-Loving Plants

Aggressive Spreaders

So the question was: What not to plant with liriope? To prevent Liriope from being overrun and stunted in growth, avoid planting aggressive spreaders like English Ivy or Vinca minor (Periwinkle) as companions for Liriope. These plants tend to outcompete Liriope, diminishing its visual impact and inhibiting its growth. By avoiding these aggressive spreaders, you will maintain the integrity and beauty of your Liriope beds.

Plants with Contrasting Growth Habits

For a cohesive and visually pleasing garden design, it’s best to avoid pairing Liriope with plants that have dramatically different growth habits. Tall and upright plants such as Cannas or Delphiniums overpower the low-growing Liriope, diminishing its presence in the landscape. To create a balanced and harmonious garden scene, select companions that share similar growth habits with Liriope.

Overly Moisture-Loving Plants

Liriope thrives in well-drained soil conditions, so it’s essential to avoid planting it alongside species that have high moisture requirements. Water-loving plants like Canna lilies or certain types of Irises may create an unfavorable environment for Liriope’s growth, leading to root rot or other moisture-related issues¹. By choosing companions that have similar soil moisture needs, you can ensure the long-term health and vitality of your Liriope plants.

Conclusion

Incorporating liriope companion plants is a fantastic way to elevate the beauty of your garden or landscape. By selecting the right partners, such as Heuchera, Hostas, Astilbes, or Japanese Forest Grass, you can create visually captivating combinations that will leave a lasting impression. Remember to avoid aggressive spreaders, plants with contrasting growth habits, and those that require excessive moisture when choosing companions for your Liriope. With careful planning and a touch of creativity, your Liriope-filled garden will flourish and become a stunning testament to the power of well-chosen companion plants.

References

1. Lee, K. S., Ginseng, G., Kim, G. H., Ginseng, G., Kim, H. H., Ginseng, G., … & Lee, G. H. (2009). Physicochemical characteristics of Liriope platyphylla tubers by drying process. Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition.