Bahiagrass
Paspalum notatum · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Panicoideae
Grass Category
Pasture/Forage, Low-maintenance Lawn, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common (likely 'Pensacola' or 'Argentine' based on blade width and growth)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7b to 11; excellent heat tolerance but turns brown quickly and goes dormant after the first hard frost.
About This Grass
A coarse-textured, light to medium green grass that forms an open, somewhat sparse canopy. It is most notable for its tall, Y-shaped seed heads (dual racemes) that rise significantly above the foliage during the growing season.
Blade Characteristics
Width is medium to coarse (4-8mm); blades are flat, elongated, and taper to a sharp point. Vernation is rolled; the ligule is a short membrane with hairs; auricles are absent. The collar is broad and may have sparse long hairs on the margins.
Root System
Extremely deep and extensive fibrous root system supported by thick, woody rhizomes. Low thatch tendency; slow establishment from seed but creates a very stable, drought-hardy sod.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to South America (Brazil, Argentina); well-adapted to the Southeastern United States and Gulf Coast.
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous with short, stout, woody rhizomes and a prostrate growth habit that forms a tough, open sod.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); very low watering needs once established. Excellent drought tolerance; prefers acidic soils (pH 5.5-6.5) and sandy textures.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal mowing height is 3 to 4 inches. Frequency must be high in summer to remove tough seed head stalks. Fertilization is low (1-2 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year). Maintenance level is Low.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils. High resistance to most pests and diseases. Poor shade tolerance and low salt tolerance compared to St. Augustine. Tough seed stalks can dull mower blades quickly.
Ecological Information
Introduced status in North America; valuable for soil stabilization and carbon sequestration in sandy regions. Provides limited wildlife cover; can be invasive in managed turf situations (like golf fairways) due to its persistence and prolific seeding.