Apart from the known landscaping uses, the also play an important role in agriculture and the stability of numerous ecosystems. 

That said, distinguishing between the grasses can prove difficult for landscapers and farmers looking to plant or eradicate them.

In this post, we’ll explore different tropical grasses, their common names, distinct physical features, and pictures to help you learn more about them and for easier identification. 

1. Carpet Grass (Axonopus Compressus)

• Scientific Name: Axonopus Compressus
• English Name: Blanket Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial 
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Carpet Grass is a perennial stoloniferous grass that can reach 15 cm in height. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and wet to acidic soils. 

The leaves are opposite, oblong, smooth on both surfaces, and about 4-15cm long. Its unique stem culms are shallow-rooted and grow close to the ground, giving it a lush mat-formation.

This native American grass is commonly used as pasture or turf grass for its grazing tolerance and low-maintenance needs. 

2. Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpureum)

• Scientific Name: Pennisetum purpureum
• English Name: Napier Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Pennisetum purpureum is a vigorous grass that achieves an impressive height of 3-5m. It has broad, flat, and long leaves measuring 2 meters, robust stems that are covered with fine hairs, and well-developed roots.

Elephant Grass, also called Napier Grass, is one of the most versatile and high-yielding tropical grasses. It thrives in a variety of extreme conditions, including dry and wet environments, which can also make it an invasive weed in many ecosystems. 

Elephant grass is mainly grown for livestock feed, especially in cut-and-carry systems, due to its high biomass yield, for erosion control, and biofuel production.

3. Buffalo Grass (Paspalum conjugatum)

• Scientific Name: Paspalum conjugatum
• English Name: Carabao Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial 
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Buffalo Grass is a tropical perennial grass that is native to tropical and subtropical Americas. It produces short culms about 60 cm high, short and soft-textured leaves with a distinct midrib.

Buffalo Grass reproduces by seeds and vegetative means, making it a high-yielding turf. It can tolerate waterlogging and shade, and is commonly found in pastures, open areas, vineyards, irrigation channels, and forest clearings. 

The grass is popular in landscaping due to its high mowing and traffic tolerance. It is also grown for fodder in cut-and-carry systems, as ground cover in shaded areas, and for weed control. 

4. Bermuda Grass (Cynodon dactylon)

• Scientific Name: Cynodon dactylon
• English Name: Couch Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial 
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Bermuda Grass is a rapidly growing tropical grass that springs up in the warmer seasons. The African native grass has unique green to dark-green, bladelike leaves that can grow up to 5 cm long. 

You can also recognize its flattened, purplish, slightly hairy stems and deep rhizomes that typically penetrate 40-50 cm into the soil. It thrives in full sun, is drought-tolerant, and can also withstand high traffic. 

For these reasons, it is a popular turf grass in residential areas, golf courses, and gardens. It is also used in soil erosion control and as feed for livestock. 

5. Kikuyu Grass (Cenchrus clandestinus)

• Scientific Name: Cenchrus clandestinus
• English Name: Kikuyu Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial 
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Kikuyu Grass, previously classified as Pennisetum clandestinum, is a perennial tropical grass native to East Africa, and can be identified by its flattened, coarsely-textured leaves, heavily branched stolons, and dense foliage.

It thrives in sunny and warm climates and rapidly grows through rhizomes and stolons. Kikuyu Grass is a valuable pasture grass due to its high grazing tolerance and is a common turfgrass for residential lawns and golf courses.

However, it is also an invasive weed in many regions globally, especially because of its high seed dormancy and rapid growth. It can climb, shade, or release toxins that inhibit the growth of other plant species.

6. Para Grass (Urochloa mutica)

• Scientific Name: Urochloa mutica 
• English Name: Scotch Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial 
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Para Grass is a creeping, fast-growing, semi-aquatic perennial grass that grows 2-5m tall. It is native to parts of the Middle East and Central Africa. 

The leaf blades are broad, sparsely or densely haired, and about 30 cm long. Stems are hairy and semi-prostrate and have distinct swollen nodes as well as green to purplish glumes. 

Scotch Grass mainly propagates by creeping stems that produce shoots and roots, spreading several meters along the ground. 

It is commonly grown as fodder for livestock, for soil erosion control, land reclamation, and as an ornamental grass for its lush appearance. 

7. Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris)

• Scientific Name: Cenchrus ciliaris
• English Name: Foxtail Buffalo Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial 
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Buffel Grass is a tussock-forming, perennial grass, native to tropical Africa, the Mediterranean, and Southern Asia. It produces erect or decumbent culms that can reach up to 2m tall. The leaves are linear, bluish-green, about 3-30 cm long. 

C. ciliaris also bears spike-like panicles 2-14 cm long, comprising spikelets surrounded by hairy bristles. It thrives in arid and semi-arid areas and will commonly be located in grasslands and open areas.

Buffel Grass is a highly valued pasture and forage grass in the tropics. It is also used for land reclamation and soil erosion control. 

Due to its deep root system (a rootstock that can penetrate 2m in the soil), the grass can spread extensively and outcompete native grasses. It has been declared a noxious weed in countries like Australia, the USA, and Mexico. 

8. Signal Grass (Brachiaria decumbens)

• Scientific Name: Brachiaria decumbens or Urochloa decumbens
• English Name: Signal Grass/Kenya Sheep Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Signal Grass is a perennial tropical grass native to the Eastern and Central African highlands. It can be decumbent or erect, growing up to 60cm tall. 

The leaves are short, soft, and bright green, with bent tips. Stems give rise to rhizomes and stolons, which can root down as deep as 2m in the deep soil. It thrives in all soil types except heavy clay soils and can tolerate shade. 

The grass is mainly grown as a permanent pasture for beef grazing or fodder in cut-and-carry systems due to its high palatability and heavy grazing tolerance. Additionally, Signal Grass can also be used in soil erosion control efforts and weed suppression. 

9. Guinea Grass (Megathyrsus maximus)

9. Guinea Grass (Megathyrsus maximus)

• Scientific Name: Megathyrsus maximus
• English Name: Guinea Grass/Tanganyika Grass
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial 
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Guinea Grass is a large tufted grass that can grow between 50 and 350 cm tall, depending on the prevailing conditions. It is native to tropical Africa and Yemen. 

M. maximus produces blade-shaped leaves that can be up to 100 cm long, cylindrical, erect culms, a panicle 15-50 cm long with green to purple spikelets, and a short creeping rootstock.

The fast-growing grass is mainly grown for pasture, silage, and hay and is also used for soil erosion control. 

Due to its rapid growth and space uptake, it can become weedy in some regions, outcompeting native plant species in grasslands and woodlands. It is also considered a fire hazard in wildfire-prone areas globally.

10. BahiaGrass (Paspalum notatum)

• Scientific Name: Paspalum notatum
• English Name: Bahiagrass/Common Bahia
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, Sedge, or Broadleaf: Grass

Bahiagrass is a perennial warm-season grass, native to Mexico and South America. You can identify it by its flat, light-green, coarse-textured foliage and V-shaped inflorescence, comprising two racemes. 

It also produces low-growing stolons that are pressed to the ground and root at the internodes, forming dense mats. The stems can grow between 20 and 70 cm tall.

P. notatum thrives in sandy loam soils and full sun but can tolerate shade, saline conditions, and drought. It is primarily established as forage for grazing animals and soil erosion control.

Sylvia Kiragu

Lead Editor for Insight Weeds.

insightweeds.com/

The post Tropical Grasses With Their Names, Characteristics, and Pictures appeared first on InsightWeeds.

Buffalo grass is a popular turf grass valued for its hardy and lush green texture. It is identified by its dense and rich green foliage as well as its broad, conduplicate leaves.

Buffalo Grass Classification

• Domain: Eukaryota
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Phylum: Tracheophyta
• Subphylum: Angiospermae
• Class: Dicotyledonae
• Order: Cyperales
• Family: Poaceae
• Genus: Stenotaphrum 
• Species: Stenotaphrum secundatum
• Varieties: Stenotaphrum secundatum. var secundatum
• Common Names: Buffalo Grass, St Augustine Grass, and Pemba Grass

Nativity and Distribution

Scotch grass is native to several tropical regions globally. They include tropical Africa (in countries such as Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon, and Liberia), parts of the United States such as Florida and Texas, Central America, the Caribbean, South America, and Asia.

It has been introduced in other places such as Australia, Europe, New Zealand, Singapore, and parts of Africa and the United States. 

Physical Characteristics

• Leaves: Alternate or paired, conduplicate leaves with an obtuse apex
• Stems: Prostrate and ascending culms
• Flowers: Hairless racemes with 1-3 spikelets
• Roots: Fibrous root system

Buffalo grass is a perennial mat-forming grass 10-30 cm tall. The rapidly spreading grass is a popular lawn grass loved for its dense, lush green growth. It is native to different tropical regions in the world, but there are several cultivars available that are adapted for use in other less favorable areas.

You can identify Stenotaphrum secundatum by its dark-green, broad leaves and lush, dense growth.

The leaves are broad, alternate or almost paired, conduplicate (folded lengthwise), about 2-15 cm long and 4-9 mm wide with entire margins.

They comprise a sheath, mostly hairless, about 3-6 cm long, although it may be slightly hairy at the joint where it meets the leaf blade. The blades are often folded when young and may be flat or still folded in maturity. 

Para stems occur in two forms. The prostrate stems, 10-30 cm long, sprawl extensively on the ground, rooting at the nodes. Short ascending culms grow from the creeping stolons and are typically flattened and glabrous. 

The stolon color varies based on the environment, shade, and age. The grass exposed to more sunlight bears purplish stolons while those under shade tend to have green stolons.

The grass bears racemes embedded in the axils, each bearing hairless, 4-6 mm long spikelets. Spikelets are oblong, falling entirely, deciduous, dorsally compressed, and about 5mm long. 

The seeds are flattened on the back, elliptic to oblong, 4-5 mm long.

Reproduction, Dispersal, and Life Cycle

• Life Cycle: Perennial 
• Seeds: Poor viable seed producer
• Climate: Tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates
• Dispersal: Limited water dispersal

S. secundatum behaves as a long-living perennial as the viable stolons progressively spread to far-reaching distances. 

The grass has a low seed yield, making it an impractical strategy for propagation. Additionally, the seeds produced are locally dispersed by floating on water for a limited period between 7 and 10 days. That said, some cultivars, such as Seville and Palmetto, have good viable seed yield. 

Improper disposal of stolons and seed material can also contribute to dispersal, leading to new growth and colonization of new areas. 

Buffalo grass is a highly commercialized grass and is mainly propagated vegetatively. Many cultivars of the grass are available across the globe. Some of the well-known names include Raleigh, Palmetto, and Sir Walter buffalo grass. 

Similar Plants

• Cenchrus clandestinus
• Axonopus spp.
• Eremochloa ophiuroides

Uses

1. Buffalo grass is a popular warm-season landscaping grass, grown for high salt and shade tolerance, and dense carpet growth.
2. Some cultivars are grown as forage for ruminants because of their easy establishment and heavy grazing tolerance. 
3. It is used as ground cover for soil conservation in areas near water bodies. 

Impact on Farms and Environment 

S. secundatum is a hardy and dense turf, popular in residential and other landscaping settings. Due to its rapid growth, especially in warmer weather, it can easily escape to unwanted areas, becoming an aggressive weed in the environment. 

In Australia and New Zealand, it is considered an environmental weed, commonly found in swamps, lawns, gardens, coastal areas, and other disturbed sites. Where required, the grass can grow tall, smothering smaller shrubs and negatively impacting landscaping or native biodiversity. 

Airborne pollen from the grass is also reported to cause allergic reactions to humans in Cape Province, South Africa, especially during prolonged dry and windy summers. 

Control

• Mechanical control: Solarization or hand-pulling the trailing stems at the edge of infestations
• Chemical control: Herbicides like haloxyfop, glyphosate, or 2,4-D.

Kakadu is considered a beneficial grass globally. However, when it turns weedy, there are expert-recommended measures you can take.

Solarization, a plastic sheet covering the grass for 6-12 weeks, can provide effective control against unwanted growth. Alternatively, pull the stems, starting from the edges of the paths or lawns, and dispose of the fragments properly. 

For larger infestations, consider selective or non-selective herbicides like haloxyfop, glyphosate, and 2,4-D, depending on the infested area. 

Sylvia Kiragu

Lead Editor for Insight Weeds.

insightweeds.com/

The post Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo, Pemba, Para, Kakadu, Scotch Grass) appeared first on InsightWeeds.

You’ll find the grass that we’ve covered here in many lawns across Australia. Most of the species featured are warm-season grasses that thrive in the local climate. You’ll succeed in growing it as long as you provide the basic requirements for growth.

Here’s the list of the most common types of lawn grass in Australia that survive in temperate or tropical climate zones. 

1. Buffalo grass

• Scientific name: Bouteloua dactyloides
• English name: Buffalo grass
• Local Name: Sir Walter, Palmetto
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Buffalo grass is a common lawn grass in Australia. This perennial grass is native to western parts of North America and grows up to 20cm tall. It is characterized by green-gray-colored curly leaves.

Buffalo grass does well in well-drained loam, clay, or limestone. This grass is also one of the few drought-tolerant North American grasses suitable for lawn use. Buffalo grass thrives in areas that get 6-8 hours of sunlight.

There are two types of Buffalo grasses; ‘Palmetto’ and ‘Sir Walter’

Palmetto Buffalo (stenotaphrum secundatum)

Palmetto Buffalo is very common in lawns in Australia. You may have already seen it in your neighbourhood.

Its characteristics include:

• Vivid green colour almost year-round.
• High drought tolerance.
• No underground roots, so it doesn’t invade pavers and garden beds.
• Suitable for high foot traffic areas.
• Less mowing than most buffalo grasses.
• Slow to recover if damaged.

Sir Walter Buffalo (stenotaphrum secundatum)

Sir Walter is the best type of grass in Australia because it can adapt to all types of weather and environmental conditions.

Unlike Palmetto, Sir Walter is fast-growing and needs frequent mowing. It also produces more seeds.

Its characteristics include:

• Keeps its winter color in a partial shade
• Grows actively in winter
• Has an even greater tolerance for wear and tear than Palmetto
• Has slightly better drought tolerance.

2. Bermuda grass

• Scientific name: Cynodon dactylon
• English name: Bermuda grass
• Local Name: Couch turf
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Bermuda grass is a perennial warm-season grass that is native to Africa but also grows in tropical to warm climates.

This fine-leaf variety of grass is dark green in color and maintains its natural shade for longer under drought conditions.

Bermuda grass grows rapidly and is able to outcompete most weed species. It is mostly used in lawn and pasture grass and for golf greens

Characteristics include:

• Fine leaf texture in bright green
• Can withstand heavy traffic
• Drought, pest, and disease resistant
• Grass grows up to 1.5 inches

3. Weeping rice grass

• Scientific name: Microlaena Stipoides
• English name: Weeping rice grass
• Local Name: Weeping meadow grass
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Weeping rice grass is one of the native grass types in Australia. The perennial grass has dense foliage and soft lime-green leaves.

This grass thrives in a high rainfall environment and can tolerate extreme weather once it’s established.

Weeping rice grass has a high salt tolerance, making it suitable for coastal lawns. It does not need fertilizer to grow.

This grass usually grows by the roadside or in shady bushland areas. It is important to note that weeping rice grass does not do well on lawns with heavier foot traffic than the usual kids’ play.

Characteristics are:

• Requires minimal mowing
• Leaves can grow to a height of 75cm if left unmowed
• Makes excellent ground cover beneath huge trees
• Low tolerance to heavy foot traffic

4. Kikuyu grass

• Scientific name: Cenchrus clandestinus
• English name: Kikuyu grass
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Kikuyu grass is native to East Africa. This perennial grass thrives in areas prone to drought and coastal conditions.

Kikuyu grass is similar to Bermuda grass because both grow rapidly during periods of high sunlight and warm temperatures. However, Kikuyu grass can grow at even lower temperatures.

Characteristics:

• Produces flat pointy leaves that are 4-5mm wide
• High tolerance to extreme weather conditions
• Suitable for high foot traffic areas
• Quick recovery and regenerative

5. Fescue

• Scientific name: Schedonorus arundinaceus
• English name: Tall Fescue
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Fescue is native to most parts of Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East.  In Australia, it is found in the South and Western parts of the country.

One of the main disadvantages of Fescue grass is its susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Characteristics:

• Grows well in poor soil
• Does not need frequent mowing
• Germinates quickly
• Coarse and bristly

6. Kentucky Bluegrass

• Scientific name: Poa pratensis
• English name: Kentucky bluegrass
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Kentucky bluegrass is a cool-season grass recognized for its lush green color, fine texture, and dense sod.

The grass is less prevalent in Australia because of the country’s extreme heat and demanding maintenance requirements.

Kentucky bluegrass, however, thrives in cooler, shaded places, including lawns, sports fields, and golf courses in the country.

Its special characteristics include:

• Kentucky bluegrass forms dense lawns.
• When left to grow, stems can reach heights of 1 to 2 feet.
• The leaves are 2 to 7 inches long, thin, and dark green in color.

7. Perennial Ryegrass

• Scientific name: Lolium perenne
• English name: Perennial Ryegrass
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Ryegrass grows best in mild, humid conditions. It creates a dense mat and has deep roots that make it resistant to heat and drought, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.

While ryegrass is disease-resistant and tolerant of shade like other cool-season kinds, it must be frequently mowed to control its development.

Characteristics of perennial ryegrass include:

• Dense perennial tuft
• Stems grow between 30-90 cm
• Fine dark green leaves, spike seed head, flat fawn seeds.
• Ideal for grazing,
• Cold and frost-tolerant
• Its growth is limited in areas with high temperatures.

8. Centipede grass

• Scientific name: Eremochloa ophiuroides
• English name: Centipede grass
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Centipede grass forms a dense lawn that is medium to light green in color. This grass is mostly used in golf courses and lawns because it can withstand foot traffic.

it is characterized by:

• Thin and long grass blades
• Stolons that help the plant to spread

9. Bentgrass (Agrostis)

• Scientific name: Agrostis
• English name: Bentgrass
• Family: Poaceae
• Annual or Perennial: Perennial
• Grass, sedge, or broadleaf: Grass

Bentgrass, known for its soft texture and primarily seen on Northern golf courses, can be identified by its tufted appearance, slender stems, and flat leaf blades.

It thrives on golf courses and lawns but requires high maintenance year-round, including fertilizing, mowing, and watering.

Characteristics:

• Thrives in temperate, cool, subtropical, tropical areas.
• Forage, turf, and weeds.
• Tufted, slender stems, flat leaf blades.
• Wind-pollinated.

These are the most common lawn grass types in Australia. Do you have a favorite from the list?

Related

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Carter

IW’s Chief Editor and a lover of green spaces.

The post 9 types of lawn grass in Australia (with pictures) appeared first on InsightWeeds.

For example, you can choose between turf grass for your lawn and ornamental grass for planting around your yard or in the garden. 

On top of that, each of these species of grass has unique features and characteristics.

Below are some of the different types of grass for landscaping that you can use in your yard. 

We have also included their scientific name and other interesting tidbits you should know about them.

1. Buffalo grass – Bouteloua dactyloides

Buffalo grass is a common North American grass native to the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It is a warm-season perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family.

Buffalo grass is short growing (about 20 cm tall), has gray-green curly leaves, and spreads very quickly horizontally using stolons, forming a thick and dense turf. 

On top of that, it is drought resistant. Therefore, it is grown as a lawn grass.

2. Bermuda grass – Cynodon dactylon

Bermuda grass is a common type found worldwide but is native to Europe, Australia, Africa, and parts of Asia. 

It is a short-growing grass (about 1 to 30 cm tall) with short, gray-green leaves. It also has a deep root system and spreads quickly horizontally using stolons.

Bermuda grass is a warm-season perennial plant; thus, it returns yearly in favorable warm weather. 

It also has a deep root system, is highly drought resistant, and forms thick sod and turf. As a result, it is one of the most popular types of lawn grass.

We previously shared how to kill weeds in Bermuda grass should you choose this grass for your lawn.

3. Ryegrass – Lolium perenne

Ryegrass, also known as English ryegrass or winter ryegrass, is a plant species in the Poaceae family and the Pooideae subfamily. 

The grass is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia but is widespread in several parts worldwide.

Ryegrass is a low-growing grass that spreads through tillering. It has dark-green leaves with a smooth, glossy surface. 

It is also perennial, cool-season grass that enjoys vigorous growth during the spring and fall seasons.

Ryegrass has a high-water tolerance and can withstand heavy foot traffic. As a result, it is mainly cultivated in school yards, parks, football fields, lawns, and other grass surfaces with high foot traffic. 

The grass is also used for overseeding winter-dormant lawn grasses like Bermuda grass.

4. Kentucky bluegrass – Poa pratensis

Kentucky bluegrass is a perennial grass species in the Poaceae family, Pooideae subfamily. 

It is native to several regions, including Europe, North Asia, and parts of North Africa (Algeria and Morrocco). The grass is also widespread (though not native) to the North American region.

Kentucky bluegrass is a short-growing plant (between 18 and 24 inches tall) with blue-green leaves with a unique, boat-shaped leaf tip. 

It is also a quick-growing grass, which spreads using rhizomes and tillers, forming a thick, dense sod. As a result, it is grown as a lawn grass.

5. Pampas grass – Cortaderia selloana

Pampas grass is a flowering grass that belongs to the Poaceae family and the Cortaderia genus. 

It is a perennial grass native to the South American region, including Brazil, Chile, and Argentina. It is a large, tall-growing plant, reaching up to 10 ft tall when mature.

Pampas grass produces long, sharp-edged leaves that fold at the midrib, forming dense tufts. 

Also, during summer, female plants produce showy, silvery-white flower plumes, which form a cluster above the foliage, creating a dramatic appearance. 

As a result, this is one of the different types of grass for the yard, which are cultivated for ornamental reasons.

NOTE: Pampas grass can also be invasive if not controlled properly. We’ve explained methods for eliminating it when it grows out of control.

6. Chinese silver grass – Miscanthus sinensis

The Chinese silver grass is a flowering grass in the Poaceae family, native to the eastern Asia region and, more specifically, China, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. 

It is an herbaceous, tall-growing perennial grass that can reach heights of up to 7ft (sometimes up to 13 ft). 

The grass also forms dense clumps (that emerge from underground rhizomes) with tall, thin leaves (7-30 cm tall and 0.3-2 cm wide).

The dense clumps of Chinese silver grass create a fountain-like appearance. On top of that, the grass produces attractive, purplish flowers that bloom above the foliage. 

The grass is commonly grown as an ornamental grass.

7. Tall fescue – Festuca arundinacea

Tall fescue is a cool-season perennial grass in the Poaceae family that is native to Europe but widespread in several regions worldwide. 

It is a bunch-forming grass that spreads through vertical shoots (tillers). The grass has dark-green coarse leaves with a dull top surface and a glossy bottom surface.

Tall fescue grass has several uses; it is grown as a forage grass for agricultural purposes. 

It is also a popular lawn grass tolerant to heavy foot traffic; it is even grown on the South Lawn of the White House. 

Lastly, the grass can be grown in landscapes for ornamental reasons due to its showy tufts.

8. Purple fountain grass – Pennisetum setaceum

Purple fountain grass is a plant in the Poaceae family and native to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa. 

It is a tall-growing plant that reaches up to five feet tall and four feet wide. It is also a perennial grass (coming back every year during the warm season), though it often acts as an annual plant in places with extremely chilly winter seasons.

Purple fountain grass has attractive, burgundy-colored leaves. It also produces showy, purple blooms in summer. 

As a result, it is one of the most popular types of ornamental grass for landscaping.

9. Feather reed grass – Calamagrostis × acutiflor

Feather reed grass is a naturally occurring hybrid plant of the Calamagrostis arundinacea and Calamagrostis epigejos, two grass species of the Poaceae family native to Eurasia. 

It is a tall-growing grass that can reach up to five feet tall and two feet wide when mature.

Feathered reed grass has blue-green leaves that become an attractive golden-tan shade in fall. It also produces showy pink or white flowers. 

Therefore, it is primarily used in landscaping for ornamental reasons.

10. Couch grass

Couch grass, also known as witchgrass or quitch grass, is another popular type used in landscaping. 

It is a perennial species of the Poaceae and Pooideae subfamily, native to Europe, Asia, northwest Africa, and the Arctic biome.

Couch grass is a low-growing grass that spreads through rhizomes, forming a dense, deep green mat. 

It is also easy to maintain and highly tolerant to drought conditions and heavy foot traffic. Therefore, it is mainly used for lawns.

11. Kikuyu grass – Cenchrus clandestinus

Kikuyu grass is a tropical species in the Poaceae family, Panicoideae subfamily. 

It is native to the Kenyan highlands that are home to the Kikuyu people, hence its name. 

However, it has been naturalized in several other regions worldwide, including South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.

Kikuyu grass is an aggressive growing grass that spreads through a deep-rooted rhizome system and above-ground runners. 

It is also a perennial plant moderately tolerant to drought and heavy foot traffic. 

Lastly, it produces light-green leaves that form a dense turf, making it a popular garden lawn grass.

12. St Augustine grass – Stenotaphrum secundatum

St Augustine grass, also known as buffalo turf, is a warm-season perennial grass species in the Poaceae family, Panicoideae subfamily. 

The grass is native to the warm regions of Africa, South America, and the southeastern U.S.A., but it is also naturalized in several other countries.

St Augustine grass is a low-growing species that spreads horizontally using stolons, forming a deep, dense turf. 

It also features broad, coarse leaves with an attractive blue-green color. These characteristics make the grass a popular option for home lawns.

If you have a lawn with St. Augustine grass, use these weed removal techniques to remove unwanted grass and other weeds from it.

13. Blue oat grass –  Helictotrichon sempervirens

Blue oat grass is a flowering grass in the Poaceae family and the Pooideae subfamily native to the grassland regions of central and southwest Europe. 

It is a tall-growing grass (reaching up to 140 cm in height) that grows in an arching pattern (spreading up to 60 cm wide. 

It is also an evergreen perennial plant, though it sometimes becomes semi-dormant in summer due to drought stress.

Blue oat grass grows clumping, forming nice-looking green-blue round tufts. 

The grass also produces pale blue-green flowers that bloom in summer, making it an excellent ornamental plant for landscaping.

14. Blue fescue – Festuca glauca

Blue fescue, also known as mountain grass or grey fescue, is a flowering grass species in the Poaceae family and the Pooideae subfamily. 

It is a semi-green herbaceous perennial grass that is native to Europe.

Blue fescue is a clump-forming grass with short, glamorous blue-gray foliage. It also produces light-green flowers with hints of purple above the leaves from late spring to early summer. 

As a result, the grass is cultivated in gardens and yards for ornamental purposes.

15. Centipede grass – Eremochloa ophiuroides

Centipede grass is a plant species in the Poaceae family and the Panicoideae subfamily native to Asia, especially in China. 

However, it is widely grown in the North American region, where it is an introduced species. It is also a warm-season perennial grass that produces attractive light green (sometimes blue-green) foliage.

Centipede grass is low-growing and spreads horizontally using stolons, forming a thick, dense mat. 

Also, it requires minimal maintenance and is tolerant to heat, making it a perfect choice for lawns. You can easily fight weeds in centipede grass should they occur.

16. European alkaligrass – Puccinellia distans  

European alkaligrass is a type of grass in the Poaceae family and the Pooideae subfamily native to Europe but widely grown in North America as an introduced species. 

It is a tall-growing perennial plant with upright stems that can reach up to 60 cm high at maturity. It is mainly found in moist areas with saline soils.

European alkaligrass features green to purplish leaves with a flat, rough texture. The plant also produces whitish flowers that form clusters above the foliage. 

Therefore, it is often grown as an ornamental plant, although it is considered a weed in many areas due to its aggressive and invasive nature.

17. Muhly grass – Muhlenbergia capillaris

Muhly grass, also known as hairawn muhly, is a plant in the Poaceae family native to eastern regions of the U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala. 

It is a perennial grass with a stiff, upright growth habit, reaching three to four feet tall. As a result, it is one of the top types of tall grass for landscaping.

Muhly grass has glossy, dark-green leaves that grow in a clumping pattern. It also produces showy pinkish-purple blooms in the fall season. Therefore, it is cultivated for ornamental reasons.

18. Creeping bentgrass – Agrostis stolonifera

The creeping bentgrass is a grass species in the Poaceae family and the Pooideae subfamily native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. 

It is a cool season, tall-growing, perennial grass that can grow up to one meter in height.

Creeping bentgrass often forms mats with its blue-grey foliage. Therefore, it is used for turf in gardens, lawns, and other landscapes like golf courses. 

However, it is incredibly high maintenance, especially when grown as lawn grass, as it requires regular watering, mowing, fertilizing, aeration, and dethatching.

19. Japanese forest grass – Hakonechloa macra

Japanese forest grass is a grass species within the Poaceae family that is native to mountainous regions of Japan, hence the name. 

It is a perennial, slow-growing grass which produces new leaves from underground offshoots.

The Japanese forest grass has narrow, lanceolate-shaped leaves that are bright, yellowish-green. It also forms dense clumps. 

It also grows in an arching pattern, with its foliage creating a beautiful cascading effect. As a result, it is cultivated as an ornamental grass.

20. Bahia grass – Paspalum notatum

Bahia grass is another common type of grass used for landscaping, belonging to the Poaceae family and Panicoideae subfamily. 

It is a perennial grass that is native to Mexico and South American regions but is also widespread in North America, where it is naturalized. It is primarily found in tropical and subtropical habitats.

Bahia grass is a low-growing, creeping plant which spreads through stolons and rhizomes. 

Therefore, it forms a dense turf with its rough-textured light-green leaves. Therefore, it is popularly used in home lawns during landscaping.

More Resources

• How to get rid of torpedo grass
• How to control Poa annua on your lawn

Carla Etheridge

Carla is a student pursuing a B.S in Agricultural Systems Technology. With a passion for landscaping for over 4 years, Carla loves plants. She has previously contributed to several other sites in the space before joining InsightWeeds.

The post 20 types of grass used in landscaping appeared first on InsightWeeds.

There are a variety of grass species, but only a few are commonly grown on lawns.

Here we’ll discuss the various species of grass, their classification, and their characteristics.

Scientific classification of grass

Grass belongs to the Poaceae family. In total, about 11,000 grass species are known today in the world.

However, you don’t have to know the 11,000 grass species since most of them share characteristics and growing conditions.

Generally, about 12 common grass types grow in lawns in different seasons. But if you need to know more than those, this list of 20 types of grass should come in handy.

Where does grass come from?

Grasses are considered the most versatile plants, as they evolved around 55 million years ago.

Wild grasses are dominant in every habitat and continent, including Antarctica. Different species thrive in different continents according to the soil and climate conditions.

On the other hand, lawns are dated to the 16^th and 17^th centuries during the European Renaissance, as most grass is native to Europe and Asia.

During this period, lawns were cultivated in wealthy households in France and England.

The practice quickly spread, was introduced to North America by European immigrants, and became popular in the late 19^th century.

Why is grass important?

Grass is a versatile plant considered the world’s most important crop.

Different grass species offer many landscaping benefits, making a house’s lawn vibrant and lush. It also protects the grass from soil erosion and purifies our air.

Additionally, grass serves as animal food and can be processed into forage food for livestock and humans.

Grass is usually grown as an ornamental plant or turf for lawns and fields. This is because they have green bladelike leaves and extensive fibrous root systems, which make them withstand outdoor activities.

8 common grass species for lawns

When starting a new lawn, you will want to choose the right type of grass that grows according to your household’s climate, soil, and yard conditions.

Here are the common types of grass plants that are suitable for your lawn according to their season affinity:

1. Bermuda grass

Bermuda grass, whose scientific name is Cynodon dactylon, is a perennial grass that grows during warm seasons.

It is popular on golf courses and the best choice for front and back yards because of its dense and deep green color. The drawback of this grass plant also has high maintenance, as it requires to be watered frequently.

The key characteristics of the Bermuda grass include its grey-green bladelike leaves that are usually 2 or 15 cm long. Its stems are slightly flat and often purplish, while its roots are deep and can extend up to 2 meters deep.

Bermuda grass can be mowed routinely to a low height, allowing it to retain traffic tolerance. While at it, you must get rid of weeds in the grass to keep it looking great.

2. Fine fescue

Fine fescue is a perennial grass genus that is standard turf and drought tolerant, suitable for warm and cool seasons.

The grass is shade tolerant and stays green all year, especially during cool seasons. It is also low maintenance as it requires little moisture and fertilizer.

The fine grass resembles tall fescue but has distinct features like greenish or reddish seedheads. Fine fescue’s leaves are smooth and slim, hence considered more highly than tall fescue for lawns.

It also has high traffic and drought tolerance and can remain healthy in full sun.

3. Buffalo grass

Buffalo grass, whose scientific name is Bouteloua dactyloides, is a warm-season perennial grass that is drought, cold, and heat tolerant.

It is a native grass in North America and low-maintenance, hence common in lawns and golf courses.

Its key characteristics include foliage that is 5 to 13 meters high and flower stalks that are 10 to 20 centimeters tall.

It also has numerous dense roots and produces by rhizomes or stolons occasionally. 

4. Tall fescue

Tall fescue, scientifically called Festuca arundinacea, is a cool-season perennial grass species similar to fine fescue.

Despite not being popular as its fine cousin, it is tolerable to heat, therefore, recommended in northern and southern states. It is common on athletic fields and areas that have more high traffic and need heavy use.

The cool season grass species can grow between 2 to 4 feet in seed head stage. Its coarse dark green leaves are thick and wide, with prominent parallel veins running through the blade.

Tall fescue reproduces through seed transmission and tillering, which makes it unique to other grasses that reproduce through stolons or rhizomes.

5. Perennial Ryegrass

The perennial ryegrass, also scientifically identified as Lolium perenne, is a low-growing turf grass grown on lawns combined with Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue.

It grows well and is easily maintained in cool areas or during cold seasons.

Its key characteristics include smooth dark green leaves with parallel veins on the upper surface. The deep roots are arbuscular mycorrhizal, a symbiotic process between plants and the Glomeromycota fungi for water and nutrients.

6. Zoysia grass

Lawngrass, scientifically identified as zoysia, is a perennial warm-season turf grass with heat, cold, and high traffic tolerance.

The name lawngrass comes from its popularity and versatility as a lawn grass. It is also low maintenance as it doesn’t require frequent watering and fertilizers.

Zoysia has a green hue uniquely different from other grasses and is known to resist pests and diseases. It can also be used to choke out weeds.

Zoysia has a deep root system that efficiently obtains water and nutrients. It thrives better in warmer and tropical regions compared to cold areas.

7. St. Augustine grass

Its scientific name is Stenotaphrum secundatum, a warm-season perennial turf grass commonly used on lawns, ranches, and pastures. This grass species is easy to control and maintain.

St. Augustine grass has dark green leaves with broad, flat blades with a coarse and delicate texture.

It also has large flat stems that are blue-green. It reproduces by stolons and forms a dense turf layer on the ground it grows.

St. Augustine grass is susceptible to weeds. However, you can get rid of them through the steps provided here.

8. Centipede grass

Centipede grass, whose scientific name is Eremochloa ophiuroides, is a warm-season perennial grass popular in lawns and fields.

The advantage of centipede grass is that it is low-maintenance and requires infrequent mowing. However, it has medium heat tolerance, poor drought, and traffic tolerance.

Its characteristics include medium to light green leaves that are coarse in texture. It also has short upright stems that grow between 3 to 5 inches high.

The plant’s roots are shallow, making it easy to uproot when considered a weed. But if you want a centipede grass lawn without weeds, consider these eradication methods.

Does grass have DNA?

Yes, grass has DNA in the chloroplast and is used to compare different grass species.

The development of genomic tools has aided in collecting large stretches of chloroplast DNA for research purposes.

Even though they are not closely related species, grass and other plant species may also pass genes during reproduction.

Comparison of chloroplast DNA is also used to study new mechanisms involved in the grass genome evolution. That’s why some grass species are closely related due to shared DNA.

An example is the fine and tall fescue grass from the same subfamily but with different leaf textures and heights.

What is the study of grass called?

The study of grass is called agrostology, and it involves the classification and identification of species of grass according to chloroplast DNA and characteristics.

Early studies involved studying the external morphology of plants, but recent and advanced studies involve cellular, historical, embryological, and physiologic studies on the grass species.

Carla Etheridge

Carla is a student pursuing a B.S in Agricultural Systems Technology. With a passion for landscaping for over 4 years, Carla loves plants. She has previously contributed to several other sites in the space before joining InsightWeeds.

The post How many species of grass are there? appeared first on InsightWeeds.

Many kinds of grass exist today, and they have unique characteristics that distinguish them. The most common factors are their structure and leaves.

This is what makes other types suitable for lawns while others are preferred for décor.

These are the 20 most common types of grasses, their scientific names, and photos.

1. Napier grass – Pennisetum purpureum

It’s scientifically referred to as Pennisetum purpureum or Cenchrus purpureus. Napier grass is also known as Uganda grass or elephant grass.

This kind of perennial tropical grass originally grows in the African grasslands.

The plant is popular in uncultivated land since it utilizes low nutrients and water. Napier grass is harvested for grazing and agricultural pest management.

In some instances, the grass is grown in order to improve the fertility of the soil and protect bare land against soil erosion.

2. Pampas grass – Cortaderia selloana

Pampas grass is scientifically identified as Cortaderia selloana and belongs to the Poaceae family.

It’s a native plant that grows in the southern South America region. It is named Pampas because it majorly grows in the Pampas region of South America.

Pampas grass has creamy white feathery plumes, clumps of lush and grass-like foliage. This kind of grass can be grown in your home.

Pampas is one of the most preferred types of grass for landscaping since it is considered attractive. Its plums are dried then used for decorations in interior design.

3. Lawn grass

There are various types of lawn grass, and each has its individual scientific name. Lawn grasses are categorized into either warm-season grasses or cool-season grasses. You can use these two categories to identify different types of lawn grass.

Here’s a list of the most common lawn grasses and their scientific names.

• Centipede grass (Eremochloa ophiuroides)
• Fescues (Festuca)
• Zoysia grass (Zoysia)
• Kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum)
• Grama grass (Bouteloua)
• Turfed hair grass (Deschampsia)

Lawn grasses are mainly used for aesthetic purposes. They are planted in gardens, public spaces, and parks to give them an appealing aesthetic.

The grasses also prevent soil erosion, and control dust spread brought about by high foot traffic. Other grasses, such as Zoysia, can choke out weeds too.

4. Lemongrass – Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass is one of those plants that can be confusing since it has so many names. Scientifically, it’s referred to as Cymbopogon citratus, but locally, it has names that will require a list.

Lemongrass is also known as:

• Barbed wiregrass
• Citronella grass
• Cochin grass
• Fever grass
• Malabar grass
• Oily heads
• Silky heads.

Most of these names originated from either its appearance, function, or where it grows.

Lemongrass is native to Australia, Asia, Africa, and the tropical islands. It is significantly grown and harvested for culinary and medicinal uses. It has a strong scent that resembles that of lemons.

5. Kentucky bluegrass – Poa pratensis

You can also refer to this type of perennial grass as Common Meadow-grass and scientifically as Poa pratensis. 

Its foliage is basal with narrow v-shaped blades. The grass natively grows in North Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America.

Kentucky bluegrass grows in ditches, roadsides, and lawns. When grown in well-drained fertile soil, it makes a valuable pasture plant. Additionally, the grass is used to set up park lawns and gardens.

However, in the native grasslands of Canada, the presence of Kentucky bluegrass indicates a disrupted and degraded landscape. Hence, it is considered an unwelcomed exotic species.

6. Silvergrass – Miscanthus

Silvergrass natively grows in the Pacific Island, Africa, and Eurasia and is scientifically named Miscanthus and has other local names like fairy grass, Eulalia, maiden grass, and morning grass.

The grass produces beautiful flowers that are large and with feathery plumes. They also have attractive foliage that starts out as green then turns to orange or bronze in autumn.

Silvergrass grows in well-drained fertile soil and in an area that receives maximum sunlight. Placing it in a shed will lead to the production of fewer flowers.

Although it can be cultivated throughout the year, it is best to plant it during autumn or spring.

7. Buffalo grass – Bouteloua dactyloides

The scientific name for buffalo grass is Bouteloua dactyloides. It natively grows in North America, especially in Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

The grass is short. This characteristic makes it perfect for use as a turfgrass in lawns and for forage.

Something interesting about this type of grass is that in history, settlers used buffalo grass’s sod to construct sod houses.

8. Fountain grass – Pennisetum setaceum

Fountain grass natively grows in America, Africa, Latin, Australia, and Asia. Its scientific name is Pennisetum setaceum, and it is a perennial plant. The grass is cultivated in tropical and warm temperature areas in the world.

Species of the fountain grass, such as pearl millet, are used as food crops, while others are used for grazing cattle. Some are grown as ornamental grass.

9. Perennial ryegrass – Lolium perenne

Perennial ryegrass is also locally known as ray grass, English ryegrass, or winter ryegrass. Its scientific name is Lolium perenne.

It is natively from the northern part of America, Asia, and Europe. However, perennial ryegrass is grown and naturalized all over the world.

The grass is grown on fertile soil to produce high yields for it to be used as a pasture and forage plant as well as in many pasture seed mixes. It has other benefits, such as its attractive turf that is used in lawns, baseball fields, and golf course fairways.

Compared to other cool-season grasses, perennial ryegrass can tolerate high foot traffic, making it suitable for use in schools and parks.

10. Common couch – Elymus repens

This kind of grass is scientifically referred to as Elymus repens. It has other common local names such as quick grass, scotch grass, witch grass, twitch, quack grass, and dog grass. 

Common couch grows in most parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is mainly used to control soil erosion and forage and is considered a weed in areas outside the native regions.

11. Bentgrass – Agrostis

This plant from the Poaceae family grows in temperate and cool areas in the world as well as at high altitudes in the tropical and subtropical regions.

In its native regions like North America, it is grown as forage and turf plants. In other places, it is considered a weed and an invasive species.

The grass has been bred to GMO creeping bentgrass that can be found anywhere globally. Its primary use is as lawn grass, and for this reason, bentgrass is one of the types of grass for landscaping fairways, greens, and golf courses.

Its advantages allow it to be used for turf since bentgrass has an appeasing deep green appearance, can handle foot traffic, has a shallow root system that is dense and thick for seeding and fast-growing, and can be mowed to a short length without any damage.

12. St. Augustine grass – Stenotaphrum secundatum

The botanical name for St. Augustine grass is Stenotaphrum secundatum. Its local names in Australia and South Africa are buffalo turf and buffalo grass, respectively.

It is one of the most common lawn grasses and is commonly grown in warm temperature areas like the tropical and subtropical regions.

It is the best choice of grass for pasture and ranching compared to other grasses like zoysia grass and Bermuda grass. This is because the blue-green color of its broad grass blades makes it attractive.

In addition, the grass thrives in well-drained soil and is able to maintain its color in extreme temperatures. The downside to it is St. Augustine won’t grow into thick grass under shade. Instead, the lawn will be thin and spindly.

13. Cogon grass – Imperata cylindrical

Cogon grass’s alternative names are blady grass, Japanese blood grass, and kunai grass, or if you prefer to use its scientific name, Imperata cylindrica. It is native to Asia, South Europe, Australia, Africa, and Melanesia.

Cogon grass is cultivated for its extensive uses and benefits in its native countries. In the southeast of Asia, cogon grass is used to thatch roofs of traditional houses.

It is widely grown for the purpose of covering ground in order to stabilize soil in beaches and other areas that are prone to soil erosion.

Cogon grass is also used in weaving mats and bags, paper-making, and as a traditional medicine for the Chinese.

14. Ryegrass – Lolium

The ryegrass is a turfgrass that is characterized by its bunch-like growth habit. It is natively cultivated in Asia, Europe, and North Africa.

This type of grass is naturalized in Australia, America, and the oceanic islands. Its botanical name is Lolium, and some of its species are grouped into different types of lawn grass.

Its high nutritional value makes it a good livestock feed that is used as pasture, hay, and grazing. Ryegrass is also fundamental in controlling soil erosion.

However, some of its species are regarded as weeds and threaten wheat production and the cultivation of other crops.

15. Switch grass – Pancium virgatum

Switch grass’s scientific name is Panicum virgatum. The grass natively grows in Canada, the United States of America, and Mexico. It is also found in central North America along roadsides, in prairies, and native grass pastures.

It is useful in the production of biomass energy, control soil erosion, grazing, forage, and as ground cover for soil conservation.

Farmers use it in multiple ways, including as a substitute for white straw in making hay and pasture for cattle. They also use it as a substrate to grow mushrooms, livestock bedding, and straw bale housing.

16. Feather reed grass – Calamagrostis acutiflora

Feather reed grass is a perennial grass that originates from Europe. It joins the group of different grass types that are hybrids.

The grass is a hybrid of Calamagrostis epigejos and Calamagrostis arundinacea. Scientifically, it is identified as Calamagrostis acutiflora.

The grass is known for its clumping nature and its resistance to heavy storms. Feather reed grass remains upright even after a substantial amount of wing or storm blows over it.

It has various uses that include as a specimen, mass planting, and growing in borders and narrow spaces as it has an excellent vertical accent.

17. Chinese fountain – Pennisetum alopecuroides

This Asian and Australian native perennial grass is known to many by other names.

You can refer to it as foxtail fountain grass, Chinese Pennisetum, dwarf fountain grass, or swamp foxtail grass. Its scientific name is Pennisetum alopecuroides.

The grass type thrives in moist, well-drained soil and a shade that receives sunlight. Favorable conditions for the growth of the Chinese fountain is in an area where temperatures don’t fall below -5 degrees centigrade, like the coastal areas.

The color of the leaves and flowers changes with the annual seasons. The flowers are normally yellow-green but turn dark purple in summer.

Its foliage is mid-green in spring and summer, then turns yellow-brown in autumn and winter.

18. Big bluestem – Andropogon gerardi

Others call it turkey foot, tall bluestem, and bluejoint, but it is scientifically referred to as Andropogon gerardi.

This type of grass is known for its tall length and is familiar in central and eastern North America. It is cultivated in the Great Plains and grasslands.

Big bluestem’s tall appearance makes it suitable for use as cattle and horse forage as it is cut to become hay. In addition, its high protein content makes it a preferred choice for ranching by ecologists and cattle ranchers.

The grass is also popular among landscapers since it is beautiful on lawns and gardens.

19. Beach grass – Ammophila

Ammophila, commonly known as beach grass, bentgrass, or marram grass, grows in coastal regions, particularly on the North Atlantic Ocean coastal line.

Its stems creep underground, allowing it to flourish under the high winds and shifting sand conditions. The stems also stabilize and prevent erosion in the coastal region.

Back in the day, around the 18th century, beach grass was used for cattle fodder, fuel, and thatch.

Women used the grass to make mats, covers for haystacks, and whitewashing brushes. It was mainly for thatching in areas near the sea in Britain.

20. Vetiver – Chrysopogon zizanioides

The perennial bunchgrass is also known as khus, and its scientific name is Chrysopogon zizanioides. It is native to India and grows in tropical regions like Indonesia and Haiti. The grass has tall stems with long, thin, rigid leaves and purple-brownish flowers.

Vetiver grass has versatile uses in soil, food, animals, and skin. For skincare, oil is extracted from the roots and used for cosmetics to make perfumes, soaps, and creams. It is also used in Ayurvedic soap and aromatherapy.

Its leaves are fed to goats, sheep, horses, and cows for their nutritional value. Vetiver is a key ingredient in the kitchen. It is used as a flavoring agent in drinks such as milkshakes, yogurt, iced drinks, and other beverages in the form of khus syrup.

Vetiver grass also conserves soils by controlling soil erosion. This is made possible by its roots that grow downwards, stabilizing river banks, terraces, and rice paddies, eventually preventing sheet erosion.

In conclusion

Lawn grass is the most common type of grass. The most popular types of lawn grass grow depending on the season.

For example, Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and perennial ryegrass are suitable in the cool season. Others, such as zoysia grass, centipede grass, Bahia grass, and Bermuda grass, are suitable for the warm season.

Whether you are looking for the best types of grass for landscaping, fencing, or livestock, you have plenty of options to select from the above list.

Related

• Different types of lawn grass in Australia

Carter

IW’s Chief Editor and a lover of green spaces.

The post 20 types of grass and their scientific names appeared first on InsightWeeds.