St. Augustine Grass
Stenotaphrum secundatum · Warm-season perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Panicoideae, tribe Paniceae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Likely 'Floratam' or 'Palmetto' based on blade width and dark green hue
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 8-11. Poor cold tolerance; goes dormant and turns tan/brown after the first hard frost.
About This Grass
A coarse-textured, low-growing turfgrass with a creeping habit. It is known for its wide blades and deep green color. When left unmowed, it can reach 6-12 inches; maintained, it forms a thick sod that crowds out most weeds.
Blade Characteristics
Coarse blade width (>4mm), reaching up to 10mm. Blades are flat with a rounded or blunt tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. Ligule is a short fringe of hairs; auricles are absent. The collar is constricted.
Root System
Extensive fibrous root system emerging from thick, creeping stolons. Moderate depth; can form significant thatch. Establishment speed is moderate via sod or plugs.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the Gulf of Mexico region, West Indies, and Western Africa; common in the Southern United States and coastal regions
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous (spreads via aggressive above-ground runners), forming a dense, coarse mat
Sunlight & Water Needs
Partial Sun to Full Sun (one of the most shade-tolerant warm-season grasses); requires at least 4-5 hours of sun. High water needs; poor drought tolerance compared to Bermuda.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2.5 to 4.0 inches. Requires frequent mowing during peak summer. Fertilization 2-4 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year. High maintenance level due to water and pest needs.
Special Characteristics
Excellent shade tolerance for a warm-season grass, high salt tolerance (ideal for coastal areas), low wear tolerance (does not handle heavy traffic well).
Ecological Information
Native to coastal regions. Provides soil stabilization in sandy coastal soils. Not considered invasive in most turf settings but can escape into moist, shaded riparian areas.