St. Augustine grass (Stenotaphrum secondatum)

What does it look like?

This medium-green grass can be identified by its low-growing leaves, which are very coarse and twisted.

How does it grow?

St. Augustine grass spreads by stolons. It must be established by springs or sod.

How does it rate for the average homeowner?

St. Augustine grass is popular for homeowners along the Gulf Coast and similar subtropical areas. It has superior best shade tolerance, but will not tolerate freezing temperatures. It will grow better than Bermuda grass in coastal climates and retains its color in the fall. The downside is that St. Augustine grass does not handle traffic well, so it's not a good choice for play areas.

In what kinds of climates / conditions does it flourish / languish?

St. Augustine grass does best in warm, humid climates and does not survive in areas where subfreezing temperatures are common. This limits its use to the Gulf states, the Carolinas and Southern California.

Does this kind of grass mix well with other grasses?

St. Augustine grass is best when used alone. Do not mix it with other grasses.

Unique qualities:

• Good shade grass
• Will develop thatch in areas with no traffic
• Cannot be established by seed
• Only grass with a known virus to attack
• Poor cold and drought tolerance

Recommended grass height, fertilizer rate, amount of water:

• Mowing ranges between 1-3 inches.
• Fertilize with 4-6 lbs total Nitrogen applied per 1,000 square feet annually.
• Water 1-2 inches per week during summer months to keep actively growing.