Bunch Cutgrass

(Leersia monandra)

Bunch Cutgrass (Leersia monandra)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 25" - 46"
High Temp. 84°F - 96°F
Low Temp. 40°F - 60°F

Summary

Leersia monandra, commonly known as Bunch Cutgrass, Monandra Grass, Creeping Rice, or Monandra Cutgrass, is a perennial grass that thrives in wetland habitats such as marshes, swamps, riverbanks, and moist open woodlands. It is native to the Southeastern United States, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This grass typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and has a spreading habit that can form dense mats. The flowers of Leersia monandra are green and inconspicuous, blooming in the summer and fall, and are not the main attraction of this plant.

Bunch Cutgrass is valued for its ability to stabilize soil in wet areas, making it useful for erosion control and restoration projects. It is also used in rain gardens and as a ground cover in moist, shaded areas. In cultivation, it prefers part shade to full shade and grows best in slow-draining clay or loam soils. While it is not a showy ornamental grass, its utility in challenging wetland conditions makes it a practical choice for certain landscaping needs. Gardeners should be aware that in some conditions, it can spread aggressively and may require management to keep it in check.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Drainage: Slow, Standing

Common Uses

Erosion Control

Natural Habitat

Wetland habitats such as marshes, swamps, riverbanks, and moist open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Monandra Grass, Creeping Rice, Monandra Cutgrass

Scientific Names: Leersia monandra, Asprella monandra, Asprella monandra, Homalocenchrus monandrus, Leersia aspera, Leersia aspera, Leersia aspera, Oryza monandra, Oryza monandra var. monandra

GBIF Accepted Name: Leersia monandra