Kikuyu Grass
Pennisetum clandestinum (syn. Cenchrus clandestinus) · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Panicoideae, tribe Paniceae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Pasture/Forage, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Kikuyu (often naturalized); notable cultivars include 'Whittet' (larger leaf, more vigorous) and 'Village Green'.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 9-11. Excellent heat tolerance; sensitive to frost, turning brown and dormant when temperatures drop below freezing, but survives via underground rhizomes.
About This Grass
A vigorous, light-to-medium green grass known for its rapid growth and thick sod. It has a coarse texture and stays relatively low when mowed but can reach 12+ inches if left unmowed. Inflorescences are inconspicuous, consisting of small bristles hidden within the leaf sheaths.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are medium-coarse (3-5mm wide), flat to slightly folded, with a rounded or slightly pointed tip. Vernation is folded. It features a hairy ligule and no auricles. The leaf surface is often sparsely hairy (pubescent).
Root System
Deep and extensive fibrous root system supported by thick, fleshy rhizomes and stolons. Leads to high thatch accumulation but excellent drought recovery and rapid establishment.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the East African highlands; widely naturalized in Australia, South Africa, California, and the Mediterranean.
Growth Habit
Highly aggressive, spreading via both thick rhizomes (underground) and robust stolons (above ground) to form a dense, spongy mat.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred (requires 6+ hours); moderate shade tolerance compared to Bermuda. High water needs for peak greenness, but exceptionally drought-tolerant due to deep roots. Prefers pH 5.5 to 7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 1.0-2.0 inches for turf. Requires frequent mowing due to rapid growth rate. Moderate to high maintenance; requires regular dethatching and 2-4 lbs of Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and recovery speed. High salt tolerance. Known for being invasive in flower beds. Highly resistant to most common lawn diseases but susceptible to Kikuyu Yellows (fungal).
Ecological Information
Introduced species in many regions; considered a noxious weed in parts of the US (e.g., California) due to its ability to outcompete native vegetation. Provides high-quality forage for livestock but can dominate local ecosystems.