Monkey grass, a common term for plants in the genera Liriope and Ophiopogon, is highly valued in landscaping for its tolerance of low-light conditions. The direct answer to whether monkey grass grows in the shade is yes; for many varieties, shade is actually the preferred environment. This evergreen perennial is a versatile ground cover often planted beneath trees or along north-facing walls where other plants struggle. While it can adapt to full sun in some climates, its resilience in filtered or partial shade makes it a popular choice for challenging garden beds.
The Shade Tolerance Spectrum
The term “monkey grass” encompasses two distinct plant groups: Liriope (Lilyturf) and Ophiopogon (Mondo Grass). Their specific shade tolerances differ. Ophiopogon japonicus, especially the black-leafed cultivar, is well-suited for deep shade, maintaining its dark color and dense growth even with minimal light. Liriope muscari and Liriope spicata are also shade-tolerant, often performing best in partial shade or filtered light, though L. spicata handles more shade than the clumping L. muscari.
The quality of growth changes significantly across the light spectrum. In deep shade, monkey grass produces thinner, longer foliage as the plant stretches to maximize light absorption, resulting in a slightly lusher, taller look. Flowering is greatly reduced; plants grown in deep shade produce fewer, smaller flower spikes compared to those receiving partial sun. Variegated varieties may also lose their distinct coloration and appear greener when placed in heavy shade.
Filtered light, such as that under a tree canopy, is often the ideal compromise. This light level allows for robust foliage growth while encouraging a reasonable display of the characteristic lavender or white flowers. Prolonged exposure to intense full sun, especially in warmer zones, can lead to scorched or yellowed foliage. Selecting the correct species based on the specific shade level is important for achieving the desired aesthetic outcome.
Essential Soil and Moisture Needs
Successfully growing monkey grass in shade requires prioritizing excellent soil drainage, as low-light areas naturally retain more moisture. Both Liriope and Ophiopogon prefer a fertile, well-draining soil composition, since prolonged saturation can lead to root rot, a common issue in shaded gardens. The ideal growing medium should be slightly acidic to neutral, maintaining a pH range between 5.5 and 7.0.
Amending heavy clay soils with organic material, such as compost, before planting helps improve aeration and facilitate water runoff. While the plant appreciates consistent moisture during establishment, it possesses notable drought tolerance once mature due to its water-storing tuberous roots. Overwatering is a greater threat to shaded monkey grass than dryness, emphasizing the need for a substrate that drains freely.
Maintenance for Shaded Growth
Maintenance for monkey grass in shade focuses on managing the damp, low-airflow environment created by the lack of sun exposure. Fungal diseases, such as anthracnose, are more prevalent in shaded, moist conditions and appear as red or brown spots on the foliage. To mitigate this risk, cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, which improves air circulation at the plant’s base.
Fertilization requirements for shaded monkey grass are minimal; a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring is sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing with high-nitrogen products, as this encourages excessive, weak foliage growth at the expense of flower production. Dividing mature clumps every few years also helps maintain the plant’s vigor and prevents overcrowding, ensuring the ground cover remains healthy and less susceptible to disease.