Monkey grass is a familiar sight in many yards, prized for its dense, grass-like foliage that creates an attractive, low-maintenance groundcover. Used widely for edging walkways or filling shaded areas, its resilience prompts questions about its safety for families and pets. Understanding the plant’s potential risks begins with proper identification.
Identifying the Plant and Common Names
The common name “monkey grass” refers to two distinct but related species, both originating from East Asia.
Liriope muscari, often called lilyturf, forms dense clumps. These plants are generally taller (up to 18 to 24 inches) and produce showy flower spikes followed by small black berries in the fall.
The second species is Ophiopogon japonicus, known as dwarf mondo grass. This variety is much shorter, typically growing only 6 to 12 inches high, and has narrower leaves. Its flower stalks are shorter and often hidden beneath the foliage, with the resulting berries usually being blue. Knowing the difference is important, as the specific part of the plant that may cause an issue can vary.
Toxicity Status for Humans and Pets
Neither Liriope muscari nor Ophiopogon japonicus is considered highly dangerous, but both contain compounds that can cause mild adverse reactions if consumed in large amounts. The primary concern comes from naturally occurring chemical compounds called saponins, which are present in both plants. Saponins can act as a digestive irritant for both humans and animals if enough is ingested.
In Liriope, the small, black berries are the most concerning part, as they are palatable and contain a higher concentration of these compounds. Some sources also indicate the presence of oxalates, which can contribute to irritation of the mouth and digestive tract. Ingestion is widely noted to cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs and cats.
For Ophiopogon japonicus, the small, tuberous roots contain the highest concentration of saponins, though they are usually buried and less accessible. Since the leaves and stems are tough and fibrous, they are low-risk, but consumption can trigger digestive discomfort. The resulting reaction is minor and self-limiting, but caution is warranted to prevent ingestion.
Recognizing Symptoms and Emergency Response
Ingestion of monkey grass, especially the berries or tubers, typically results in symptoms related to gastrointestinal irritation. The most common signs in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. You may also notice increased drooling (hypersalivation) or a general lack of energy and lethargy.
If you suspect a child or pet has eaten any part of the plant, immediately remove any remaining material from their mouth. The next action should be to contact a professional for guidance. For humans, call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222; for pets, call a veterinarian or a pet poison control service.
When contacting a professional, provide the specific part of the plant ingested, the estimated amount, and the time since consumption. This information allows medical staff to accurately assess the risk level and determine if observation at home is sufficient or if an immediate clinic visit is required. Close monitoring is necessary even for mild symptoms, as sensitivity to the saponins can vary.