Zoysia Grass
Zoysia japonica · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Meyer or Zenith (common in residential lawns)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5-11 (depending on cultivar); high heat tolerance; enters dormant tan state when soil temperatures drop below 50-55°F.
About This Grass
A dense, slow-growing turfgrass known for its soft feel and thick sod. In the photo, it is undergoing winter dormancy, transitioning from a straw-like tan color to a pale green as temperatures rise.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width is medium (2-4mm), stiff texture, pointed tips. Vernation is rolled in the bud. Ligule is a fringe of hairs; auricles are absent. Blades typically stand at a 45 to 90-degree angle from the stem.
Root System
Deep and fibrous with a high concentration of rhizomes and stolons. High thatch-forming tendency; slow establishment speed but excellent drought tolerance once mature.
Growing Information
Origin Region
East Asia (Japan, China, Korea); adapted to the Transition Zone and Southern US
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous and Stoloniferous; forms a very dense, carpet-like mat
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun to Light Shade (more shade tolerant than Bermuda); requires 6+ hours of sun. Moderate water needs; excellent drought tolerance; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 1.0-2.0 inches; requires sharp blades due to leaf toughness. Low to medium fertilization (1-2 lbs N per 1000 sq ft). High maintenance for dethatching.
Special Characteristics
High wear tolerance; excellent salt tolerance; superior weed crowding ability due to density; slow recovery from damage; prone to Large Patch disease in wet springs.
Ecological Information
Introduced species; high soil stabilization and erosion control due to dense mat; low wildlife food value but provides cover for small insects; non-invasive compared to Bermuda.