Looking for a low-maintenance groundcover that thrives in sun or shade? Monkey grass is a versatile landscaping plant used for borders, ground cover, and erosion control. This guide covers the most common types, including Liriope muscari and Liriope spicata, along with planting steps, ideal growing conditions, and maintenance tips. You will also learn how monkey grass compares to mondo grass and where it works best in your yard.
What Is Monkey Grass?
Monkey grass is a common name used for several grass-like groundcover plants, most often referring to species in the Liriope genus. Despite its name, monkey grass is not a true grass but a member of the asparagus family. It features narrow, arching leaves and produces small purple or white flower spikes, followed by dark berries later in the season.
This plant is popular in landscaping because of its adaptability. It tolerates a wide range of light conditions, resists many pests, and requires minimal upkeep once established. Homeowners often use monkey grass as a border plant, ground cover under trees, or erosion control on slopes where mowing grass would be difficult.
Common Types of Monkey Grass
Several varieties of monkey grass are available, each with slightly different growth habits and ideal uses.
Liriope Muscari
Liriope muscari is the most widely planted type of monkey grass. It grows in clumps rather than spreading aggressively, making it a good choice for defined borders and edging. This variety typically reaches 12 to 18 inches tall and produces attractive purple flower spikes in late summer.
Liriope Spicata
Liriope spicata, sometimes called creeping lily turf, spreads through underground rhizomes rather than staying in tight clumps. This makes it well suited for ground cover over larger areas or slopes needing erosion control. Because it spreads more aggressively, it requires more attention to keep it contained within garden beds.
Dwarf Monkey Grass
Dwarf monkey grass is a compact variety, usually growing only 4 to 6 inches tall. It works well as a low border along walkways or garden beds where a taller plant would look out of place. This variety still forms the same arching leaf blades as other types, just on a smaller scale.
Variegated Monkey Grass
Variegated monkey grass features leaf blades striped with white or cream coloring alongside the standard green. This adds visual interest and can brighten shaded areas of the landscape. It generally grows similarly to standard Liriope muscari in terms of height and clumping habit.
From clumping Liriope muscari to spreading Liriope spicata, choosing the right variety depends on your space, sunlight, and desired growth pattern.
How to Plant Monkey Grass
Planting monkey grass is straightforward and can be done using nursery starts, divisions from an existing plant, or seed, though divisions and starts establish more quickly. Follow these steps for successful planting.
- Choose your planting location based on the variety's light and space requirements.
- Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of about 6 to 8 inches and mixing in compost if the soil is heavy clay.
- Space plants appropriately. Clumping varieties like Liriope muscari should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart, while spreading varieties can be planted closer together to fill in faster.
- Dig planting holes slightly wider than the root ball and set the plant at the same depth it was growing in its container.
- Backfill and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
- Apply mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds while the plants establish.
Early spring or fall are typically the best times to plant monkey grass, allowing roots to establish before extreme summer heat or winter cold.
Best Growing Conditions for Monkey Grass
Monkey grass is adaptable, but understanding its preferred conditions helps ensure healthy, vigorous growth.
Sunlight Requirements
Monkey grass tolerates a wide range of light conditions, from full sun to deep shade. However, variegated varieties often show their best coloring in partial shade, since too much direct sun can fade the leaf pattern. In deep shade, growth may be slightly slower, but the plant generally still performs well.
Soil Preferences
This plant is not particularly picky about soil type and can grow in clay, loam, or sandy soil. Well-draining soil is preferred, since consistently soggy conditions can lead to root rot. Adding organic matter at planting time improves soil structure and supports healthier root development.
Watering Needs
Once established, monkey grass is fairly drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering in most climates. New plantings need consistent moisture during the first growing season to support root establishment. After that, watering during extended dry periods is usually sufficient to keep the plant looking full and healthy.
Fertilizing Tips
Monkey grass does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring is generally enough to support healthy growth. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of the plant's naturally tidy, compact form.
Meeting these light, soil, water, and fertilizer needs helps monkey grass establish quickly and stay healthy with minimal upkeep for years to come.
How to Care for and Maintain Monkey Grass
Maintenance for monkey grass is minimal compared to traditional lawn grass. Key care practices include:
- Trimming old foliage. Cutting back dead or damaged leaves in late winter, before new growth emerges, keeps the plant looking neat.
- Dividing overgrown clumps. Every few years, clumping varieties can be divided to control size and encourage healthier growth.
- Controlling spread. For spreading varieties like Liriope spicata, installing edging or root barriers helps prevent it from invading unwanted areas.
- Watching for pests. While generally pest-resistant, monkey grass can occasionally attract snails, slugs, or scale insects, which should be addressed if populations grow large.
- Removing spent flower spikes. This is optional, but it can tidy up the plant's appearance after the blooming period ends.
With minimal trimming, occasional division, and basic pest monitoring, monkey grass stays healthy and attractive year after year with very little effort.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Monkey grass is generally low maintenance, but a few issues can arise. Here is how to identify and address them.
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Brown or yellowing leaf tips | Drought stress or excess fertilizer | Adjust watering schedule and reduce fertilizer application |
| Root rot | Poor drainage or overwatering | Improve soil drainage and reduce watering frequency |
| Sparse or thin growth | Too much shade for the specific variety or nutrient deficiency | Trim overhead branches for more light or apply light fertilizer |
| Spreading beyond garden beds | Liriope spicata's natural spreading habit | Install root barriers or divide and remove unwanted sections |
| Fungal leaf spot | High humidity combined with poor air circulation | Thin nearby plants for better airflow and avoid overhead watering |
Most problems with monkey grass stem from watering or light conditions rather than serious disease, making them relatively easy to correct.
Monkey Grass vs Mondo Grass: What's the Difference?
Monkey grass and mondo grass are often confused since they look similar and are sometimes used interchangeably in casual conversation. However, they belong to different plant genera with some distinct differences.
| Feature | Monkey Grass (Liriope) | Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon) |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf texture | Slightly coarser, stiffer blades | Finer, softer blades |
| Height | Typically 12 to 18 inches (dwarf varieties shorter) | Usually shorter, 6 to 8 inches for standard types |
| Flower color | Purple or white spikes | Light lavender or white, less prominent |
| Cold tolerance | Generally more cold hardy | Slightly less cold tolerant in some varieties |
| Common use | Borders, ground cover, slopes | Fine-textured ground cover between pavers |
Both plants serve similar landscaping purposes, so the choice often comes down to desired texture and specific site conditions rather than major functional differences.
Best Landscaping Uses for Monkey Grass
Monkey grass works well in a variety of landscaping applications due to its adaptability and low maintenance needs.
- Border edging. Clumping varieties create clean, defined lines along walkways, driveways, and garden beds.
- Ground cover under trees. Its shade tolerance makes it a practical alternative to grass in areas where turf struggles to grow.
- Erosion control on slopes. Spreading varieties like Liriope spicata help stabilize soil on inclines where mowing would be difficult.
- Between pavers or stepping stones. Dwarf varieties can soften hard landscaping edges without overtaking walkway space.
- Mass plantings. Larger beds of monkey grass create a uniform, textured look with minimal upkeep compared to traditional lawn areas.
With its adaptability across borders, slopes, and shaded beds, monkey grass remains a practical, low-maintenance choice for nearly any landscaping challenge.
Final Thoughts
Monkey grass is a versatile, low-maintenance plant suited for borders, ground cover, and erosion control. With multiple varieties available, including clumping and spreading types, it adapts to different landscaping needs and light conditions. Proper planting, occasional trimming, and basic soil care keep it healthy for years. Understanding the difference between monkey grass and mondo grass helps you choose the right option for your specific yard.
FAQs
Does Monkey Grass Need Full Sun?
No, monkey grass tolerates a wide range of light conditions, from full sun to deep shade, though variegated types prefer partial shade.
How Fast Does Monkey Grass Spread?
Clumping varieties like Liriope muscari spread slowly, while spreading types like Liriope spicata can fill in an area more quickly through rhizomes.
Is Monkey Grass Invasive?
Liriope spicata can spread aggressively if left unchecked, so root barriers or regular division are recommended to control its growth.
When Should I Cut Back Monkey Grass?
Late winter, before new growth begins, is the best time to trim back old or damaged foliage.
Can Monkey Grass Survive Cold Winters?
Most monkey grass varieties are cold hardy and can survive winter temperatures in a wide range of climates, though foliage may die back in harsh cold.
How Often Should I Water Established Monkey Grass?
Established monkey grass is drought tolerant and typically only needs watering during extended dry periods.
Does Monkey Grass Need To Be Divided?
Clumping varieties benefit from division every few years to manage size and maintain healthy, vigorous growth.
Can Monkey Grass Grow In Containers?
Yes, monkey grass adapts well to container planting, making it a flexible option for patios or small garden spaces.
Is Monkey Grass Toxic To Pets?
Monkey grass berries can cause mild stomach upset if ingested by pets, so it is best to monitor pets around the plant.
What Is The Difference Between Monkey Grass And Liriope?
Monkey grass is simply the common name for liriope, so the two terms refer to the same plant.