AKA Lily Turf / Mondo Grass / Liriope The average gardener would be hard pressed to tell the difference between Liriope and Ophiopogon as they apear to be very similar which in fact they are. To assist you to make the correct choice for your garden design or planting scheme I will explain the main points of difference in simplistic terms.   Liriope tends to have broader leaves than Ophiopogon. Liriope also forms a clump that more or less stays where it is put but gently increases in size. This means it is ideal for planting in rows or edging a path etc. Ophiopogon on the other hand tends to creep along the ground and pop up in a more random fashion. This is because of the underground creeping stolons or tubers. Ophiopogon are an excellent choice as a ground cover or rockery plant. It doesn't mean they should be excluded for edging as any unwanted apearances can be dealt with very easily and either discarded or used in another part of the garden. The flowers that apear in summer look similar. The main point of difference being that they are held above the foliage of Liriope and tend to be a little more hidden with Ophiopogon.  

Now that we've got that sorted all you really need to know is that both these perennials are tough, hardy and easy to grow. They like a slightly acidic soil that is not too heavy (e.g. not clay) however, overall they are remarkably tolerant and adaptable. In our harsh afternoon sun you may notice a little leaf scorch but this will not cause great harm and once again the plants are remarkably able to adapt to their chosen position. However the best performance will be obtained if your plants are in morning sun or light shade. The clumps are evergreen and need little maintenance apart from the removal of untidy or scruffy foliage. In desperation neglected clumps can be cut back hard and new foliage will emerge quite quickly.   Leaf colour ranges from black to dark green with attractive variegated options as well. The flowers come in white, pink and mauve shades and these are often followed by shiny little berries. Both Liriope and Ophiopogon are a landscaper's dream plant for adding definition and direction and for softening the edges of pathways, and are well worth considering for their easy care, good natured, low maintenance habit.  

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