These two genera appear to many to be the same but have subtle botanical differences, the most obvious to gardeners is that Ophiopogon produce berries while Liriope produce dry seeds (albeit rarely!).
Neither are really known by common names in the UK but the "black grass" Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' is well enough known by that, slightly misleading common name, it is not a grass at all of course!
All of these plants make dense clumps or patches of evergreen foliage and can be useful for edging or groundcover use in shady places. They all tend to do far better if grown in moist shade but will survive in a wide range of sites. Some forms (including the often requested Ophiopogon japonicus) can be rather slow to increase, hence quite expensive to produce. If a good, vigorous, but not invasive, groundcover is required Ophiopogon bodinieri is the better bet, covering the ground well, even in full sun.
A new variety with masses of large lilac-purple spikes in autumn over clumps of rich green strappy leaves. Average to good soil in part shade or shade. Evergreen. 25cm.
Low growing clumps. slowly spreading, of grass-like green leaves to 15cm. Light mauve flowers followed by blue berries if you are lucky! Often used as groundcover in Japanese style gardens. Good soil in shade.
Rarely seen green leafed form of the famous "black grass" with beautiful milky white flowers in mid to late summer. Good evergreen groundcover, even in quite dry shade.
