Monkey grass is a common name encompassing several perennial plants, primarily those in the Liriope and Ophiopogon genera. These Asian natives are popular in landscaping for their resilience and versatility, often serving as a low-maintenance ground cover or a neat border along walkways. Though they resemble ornamental grasses, they are actually part of the asparagus family and are prized for their ability to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Monkey grass is generally evergreen in warmer climates and semi-evergreen elsewhere, providing year-round foliage interest.
Initial Planting and Environmental Needs
Selecting the right location is key for successful monkey grass cultivation. Liriope species are highly adaptable, performing well in full sun, partial shade, or deep shade, though flowering may be reduced in deep shade. Ophiopogon (mondo grass) prefers partial to full shade, and may require additional watering if exposed to afternoon sun in warmer regions. Both types tolerate poor soil but thrive best in well-drained conditions with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. Incorporating organic matter improves drainage and structure. The best time for planting is in the spring or early fall. Ensure the crown, where the foliage meets the roots, is level with the soil surface to prevent crown rot.
Spacing depends on the desired function. For a dense ground cover, fast-spreading plants like Liriope spicata can be placed 2 to 6 inches apart. Clumping varieties, such as Liriope muscari, require 6 to 8 inches for mass planting or 12 to 18 inches if used as a border. After planting, water thoroughly and maintain consistent moisture for the first six to eight weeks until the roots are established.
Seasonal Maintenance Tasks
Newly planted monkey grass requires regular moisture during the first growing season. Once established, the plants are drought-tolerant and only need supplemental water during prolonged dry periods. Applying a layer of organic mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, supporting overall plant health.
Monkey grass has low nutritional requirements. For optimal vigor, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in the early spring as new growth begins. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth instead of flowers.
The most significant seasonal maintenance is the annual pruning of the foliage. This task should be performed in late winter or very early spring, before new shoots emerge. Cut back the old, semi-evergreen foliage to about two to three inches above the ground to encourage vibrant new growth. Pruning can be accomplished using sharp shears or by carefully mowing over the patches with the lawnmower set to its highest blade height.
Crown rot is the most common issue, occurring when the plant sits in excessively soggy or waterlogged soil. Slugs and snails may occasionally feed on the foliage. These pests can be managed by removing debris around the plant bases or using appropriate baits.
Managing Growth Through Division
Division is the primary method for managing dense growth and rejuvenating older patches of monkey grass. The best time to divide clumps is in the early spring or very late fall. Division is recommended every three to four years when the center of a clump begins to thin out or becomes overcrowded.
To divide a plant, carefully dig up the entire clump. The dense root mass and rhizomes can then be separated into smaller sections using a sharp spade, a knife, or by hand. Each new division must contain a healthy portion of roots and at least eight leaves or three to five shoots to ensure successful re-establishment.
Replant these smaller divisions immediately at the same depth as the original plant, ensuring the crown remains exposed above the soil line. Water the separated sections thoroughly and consistently for several weeks, treating them like new transplants until root growth is evident. This periodic division helps control spread, especially for aggressive Liriope spicata varieties.