St. Augustine grass
stenotaphrum secundatum
Also known as: ["Paso grass","Charleston grass","Saint Augustine grass"]
Overview
A warm-season grass known for its broad, flat blades and tolerance to heat and humidity.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Genus: | Stenotaphrum |
| Botanical Name: | Stenotaphrum secundatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Grasses
- Suitable Location: lawn, garden bed, or container in warm climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor in very dry conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; more frequently in active growth periods.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown portions.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but may become less vigorous.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun promotes dense growth; partial shade reduces stress in hot regions; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–14 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Water thoroughly to encourage deep roots; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
loamy, well-drained soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter for fertility; monitor pH for optimal growth.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (70–90°F / 21–32°C). Tolerates heat well but is sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; ensure good drainage in heat; adjust watering with temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during growing season
Fertilize lightly and frequently during growth; water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; stop in fall to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stolons (runners) or division of established clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stolons or divide clumps.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Monitor for rooting.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is vigorous.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with bright indirect light.
Medium
Sandy loam or standard potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required for stolons or division.
Timeline
Roots develop within 2–4 weeks; plants establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, vigorous stolons; keep soil consistently moist; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim with clean cuts; remove runners if containment is desired.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health; control spread in garden beds.
Tools
Hand pruners, shears, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead growth; trim runners if needed; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Apply water directly to the root zone, ensuring even coverage. Water until it drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage to reduce disease risk. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once or twice a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or aged manure for fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaf tips in extreme heat; wilting or blackened foliage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts below 50°F (10°C); prolonged exposure to frost can cause leaf damage or death.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect with frost cloth in cold snaps; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting, scorching of leaves, or reduced vigor in extreme heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide consistent moisture; offer partial shade during peak heat; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at recommended rates; water before and after fertilizing; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer. Apply at half-strength monthly during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicStenotaphrum secundatum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is commonly used in lawns and is generally safe for cats to interact with or ingest in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicStenotaphrum secundatum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is commonly used in lawns and is generally safe for dogs to interact with or ingest in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicStenotaphrum secundatum, commonly known as St. Augustine grass, is not considered toxic to humans. It is widely used in landscaping and is generally safe for human contact and ingestion in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is St. Augustine grass suitable for shady areas?
A: Yes, it is one of the more shade-tolerant warm-season grasses.
Q: How often should St. Augustine grass be watered?
A: It requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods, but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does St. Augustine grass spread quickly?
A: Yes, it spreads via above-ground stolons, making it effective for lawn establishment but potentially invasive in some settings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Poaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, or when top |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
