We have a shady back yard where no lawn will grow. We planted Dwarf Monkey Grass. It works. Evergreen, never needs mowing, about 3" tall. You can pull it out where you don't want it. Edge it. Hedge it. I have seen where it was mowed and it looks like dark green lawn. But it is not as soft. It is a slow grower. Plant them in clumps close together. The roots are not deep so you can plant over it with other things, like Hostas or other shade lovers.
