St. Augustine Grass
Stenotaphrum secundatum · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Panicoideae, Tribe Paniceae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Common St. Augustine (likely 'Floratam' or 'Palmetto' based on blade width and color)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 8-10. Poor cold tolerance; enters dormancy and turns brown when soil temperatures drop below 55°F.
About This Grass
A coarse-textured, low-growing grass known for its rapid lateral spread. It features wide, blunt blades and a vibrant medium-to-dark green color. It maintains a dense sod even under moderate shade.
Blade Characteristics
Coarse blade width (>8mm), flat shape with a distinct boat-shaped or rounded tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. Color is medium-to-deep green. Ligule is a fringe of short hairs; auricles are absent; collar is constricted.
Root System
Strongly stoloniferous with a relatively shallow fibrous root system. High thatch-forming tendency if over-fertilized; moderate establishment speed from sod or plugs.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the coastal regions of the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, and Mediterranean; well-adapted to subtropical and tropical climates.
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous (spreads via aggressive above-ground runners/stolons); forms a thick, carpet-like matte.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial Sun to Full Sun (one of the most shade-tolerant warm-season grasses); needs at least 4-5 hours of sun. Requires moderate to high watering; low drought tolerance compared to Bermuda.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height: 2.5 - 4.0 inches. Frequency: weekly during peak growth. Fertilization: 2-4 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year. Requires periodic dethatching; medium maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent salt tolerance (ideal for coastal areas), high shade tolerance for a warm-season grass, and good ability to crowd out weeds due to its dense growth habit.
Ecological Information
Native to coastal regions; provides soil stabilization in sandy soils. Not considered invasive in its native range but can be aggressive in garden beds. Often grown as a monoculture turf.