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

• The best apps for timber identification in Australia
• List of weeds that stick to your clothes
• Types of weeds with yellow flowers

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.

When it comes to landscaping, most people usually go for traditional lawn turf or even flowering plants before considering ornamental grasses.

However, they can be just as effective with their conspicuous colors adding breath-taking beauty to your compound.  

Ornamental grasses can also be used with traditional turf of flowering plants to create a contrasting landscape design.

Below, we have compiled a list of various ornamental grasses you should consider for your landscaping needs. 

1. Mexican feather grass 

Mexican feather grass is a common type of grass in the United States, Mexico, and South America. It is known by several other names such as finestem needlegrass and Argentine needlegrass.

The Mexican feather grass is a perennial grass that grows in bushes, with its stem rising as high as 40 inches tall.

It is mainly used as an ornamental garden plant but can also grow freely in the wild.

It is a fine-textured grass with bright, lime-green foliage. It can maintain its color all year round, only drying and browning a little during the hot season.

It is best suited for growing in USDA zones 6 to 10.  

2. Japanese silver grass 

Japanese silver grass is an ornamental type of grass that grows in thick clumps that can reach 8 feet tall.

It produces feathery, whitish-gray plumes – hence the name – though some varieties have pink or reddish flowers.  

The Japanese silver grass is one of the top ornamental grasses for full sun areas. It does well in moist soils but can tolerate a bit of a drought. It does well in zones 5 to 9.  

3. Pheasant’s tail grass 

The Pheasant’s tail grass is a fast-growing ornamental grass that offers excellent landscaping opportunities. It grows in fountain-like clumps, which provide vibrant colors all year round.

It has bright-green foliage, which turns orange, yellow, or red, providing a pretty scene. The colors are more intense and dramatic as the cold season sets in. 

The Pheasant’s tail grass does well in full or partial sun and prefers moderately fertile to well-drained soils. It is one of the hardiest perennial ornamental grasses, which does well in zone 8 to 10. 

4. Leatherleaf sedge 

Leatherleaf sedge is a perennial grass that grows in thick, dense clumps that can reach up to 3 ft. tall. It is a colorful ornamental grass with vibrant orange to bronze blades.

It is suited for landscaping gardens, yards, or lawns or creating privacy fences. It can offer amazing views in gardens when mixed with other types of grasses or flowering plants.

Leatherleaf sedge grass does well in well-draining fertile soil. It has a moderate growth rate, but is quite hardy, doing well under full sun, hot seasons, and even cold seasons.

Leatherleaf flowers during summer and spring. It is best suited for zones 6 to 9.  

5. Regal mist pink muhly grass 

Regal mist pink muhly grass is a popular grass that is used for ornamental purposes in gardens and yards. It grows in a small form and features glossy green foliage.

However, from late summer to winter, the plant produces airy pink plumes, which offer magnificent views.  

The pink muhly grass plant is hardy and can adapt to various types of soils and climates. However, it does exceptionally well in rich, well-drained soil.

It can also do well in partial shade but requires full sun for fast growth and blooming. It is ideal for growing in zones 6 to 9. 

6. Moor grass 

The moor grass is a grass plant with purple flowers, which is used for ornamental reasons.

It is a native plant in Europe and North Africa but can also be found in other world regions such as the Pacific North West, and Southern America.

It grows in a neat tuft and can reach heights of up to 8 feet. Therefore, it is also a perfect candidate for privacy fences.  

Moor grass does well in fertile, acidic soils. It requires regular watering and does well in partial shade or full sun. It is one of the top perennial ornamental grasses for zone 4 regions.  

7. Switchgrass 

Switchgrass is a perennial upright growing grass which forms tall clumps that reach up to 6 feet tall.

The grass grows in bluish-green foliage with streaks of color that offer exceptional landscape beauty. It also produces feathery plumes during the summer, further adding to its appeal.  

The switchgrass plant is very versatile and hardy. It can do well in dry conditions but enjoys a fast growth in fertile, wet soils. It also enjoys partial shade to full sun.

Switchgrass is one of the low-maintenance ornamental grasses. If the plant dies off due to extreme conditions, it will re-establish itself soon after due to its vast rhizome systems.

Switchgrass is ideal for growing in zones 5 to 9. 

8. Lilyturf

Lilyturf is a type of perennial, broadleaf, evergreen grass used for various landscaping solutions. It is known by several names, such as monkey grass, spider grass, liriope, and more.

Lilyturf grass grows in clusters of tall tufts, which reach up to 45 cm. It has glossy, dark-green foliage and produces attractive purple flowers in late summer.  

Lilyturf is one of the easiest-growing ornamental grasses. It does well in medium to well-drained soil. It can also thrive in full sun or partial shade, tolerant of drought and heat.

The grass is ideal for growing in zones 6 to 10 and zone 5 with proper winter protection.  

9. Hardy fountain grass (Pennisetum) 

Hardy Fountain grass is a perennial ornamental plant that is used in various landscape settings.

It is a warm-season grass, native to Asia and Australia but well adapted to the climate of various regions around the world.  

Hardy fountain grass has deep green foliage with dense upright clumps that reach up to 48 inches. However, as the leaves mature, they curve up, appearing like a fountain.

The leaves also change color with the season, turning orange in autumn and beige in summer.  The grass is ideal for growing in zones 5 to 10. 

10. Pampas grass 

Pampas grass is a perennial ornamental grass native to Asia and regions of South America. It is known by several other names, such as Cortaderia (meaning cutter) due to its sharp leaf blades.  

Pampas grass grows in big tufts of green foliage and produces white flowers. It is a tall-growing plant, which can reach heights of 10 feet.

Therefore, aside from ornamental uses during landscaping, it makes for a very good privacy fence. 

Pampas grass thrives in well-drained soils, but it is very versatile and does well in any soil type. It tolerates partial shade but thrives in full sunlight.

It is ideal for growing in zones 7 to 11 but can also be cultivated in zone 6. 

The grass is considered a weed in some areas where it has to be eliminated quickly to prevent it from spreading.

11. Overdam feather reed grass 

Overdam Feather Reed Grass is a perennial ornamental grass that grows in bushy tufts. It is a cool-season grass with bright green foliage with attractive white streaks.

The grass plant is native to the Asian and European regions but has become naturalized in several regions, including the Americas.  

Overdam Feather Reed grass has low maintenance. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate a hot and dry climate (but with a bit of shade).

The grass plant grows well in fertile, moist soils but can also grow in clay soil.

It is also very hardy. It survives even through the winter season. It is ideal for growing in zone 4 to 9. 

12. Purple fountain grass 

Purple fountain grass is one of the most popular ornamental grasses used for landscaping.

It has burgundy or purple-colored foliage with fuzzy, purplish bloom, which offers breathtaking views of your garden.  

Purple fountain grass is a perennial plant which keeps on coming back each year. It is low maintenance and can do well in nearly every type of soil.

It is also drought-resistant and can survive dry conditions. However, it will thrive in moist, well-drained soils with regular watering.  

The purple fountain grass does not take much effort to grow. Also, once established, it can keep coming back year after year with little maintenance.

However, for the best performance, it is ideal for growing in zones 7 to 9 (but with winter protection in zones 7 and 8).  

13. Giant oat grass 

Giant Oat grass is a fast-growing tufted grass that is green all year round. It is tall growing, reaching up to 2 meters high.

It has upright leaves with large, purplish flowers that turn to a golden color when they ripen. As a result, it is a great candidate for landscaping work. 

The Giant Oat grass is a sun-loving plant that is quite hardy and can do well in nearly any soil type.

However, for the best results, you should grow it in moist, well-drained soil. It also does best when grown in zones 6 to 9. 

14. Blood grass 

The Japanese Blood Grass is the ornamental grass of choice if you need bold and vibrant colors for your garden.

The attractive red accent adds unique beauty to your garden regardless of the season.  

The blood grass does well in full sunlight, and the red accent will be more intense when it receives ample sunlight, such as in autumn and winter.

It is also perennial, coming back year after year.

However, it often dies back during the winter season, only to sprout again. It is hardy to USDA zones 5 to 9.  

15. Japanese forest grass 

The Japanese Forest Grass is another amazing ornamental grass. It is native to Japan but can be found in several other regions across the world.

Homeowners love the plant for its beautiful clumps and the evergreen leaves with a gold accent.

It is perfect for landscaping, whether grown in containers or color accent in the garden or along the border. 

The Japanese Forest Grass is not very hardy, requiring fertile, moist, well-drained soils. It also requires regular watering, especially during hot weather.

On top of that, it thrives in partial shade and not full sunlight. It does best when grown in USDA zones 5 to 9 

16. New Zealand flax 

New Zealand Flax is another popular ornamental grass to consider when looking to spruce up the curb appeal of your home.

It is used for landscaping due to its deep red or purplish bronze foliage.

In addition, it is a tall and wide growing grass, which can grow up to 4 feet wide and 5 feet tall. Therefore, you can also use it for fencing.  

The New Zealand Flax is low-maintenance, aside from the regular de-clumping every few years or so.

The grass does well in fertile, well-drained soils and partial shade to full sun. It is recommended for growing in zones 8 to 10. 

17. Zebra grass 

The zebra grass is an ornamental grass that gets its name from the vibrant green leaves with patches of pale yellow.

It is a beautiful plant that offers an exotic look that works perfectly with other flowering plants.  

The zebra grass is a tall-growing, bushy grass, which can reach up to 5 feet high and 5 feet wide. It is perennial, coming back year after year.

However, it dies back in the winter season, only to sprout back vigorously during spring.

Therefore, it is ideal for growing in USDA zones 5 to 9. 

18. Blue fescue 

Blue Fescue is a low-growing ornamental grass which is used for edging or borders. Some species of Fescue grass are even grown as lawn grass sometimes.

However, the blue foliage in the Blue Fescue and the yellow flowers make it perfect for landscaping.  

Blue Fescue is a hardy perennial plant which does well in sandy soil and prefers full sun to part shade.

The plant will thrive with supplemental water in the driest conditions, but the soil should not become too wet.

It is ideal for growing in zones 4 and 5, though some varieties can be grown even in zone 3. 

19. June grass 

June Grass is a hardy perennial grass that is native to Eurasia and North America. It is also known as crested hair grass in the UK, where it is quite common.

It is a short-growing, tuft grass that only reaches about 20 to 70 cm.

The grass has beautiful blue-green leaves with shiny tan spikes that sometimes bloom with purple hues.

It is also a good host for butterfly larvae, which adds further to the beauty of your garden.  

The June Grass is a hardy perennial grass which grows on average in dry soil.

It also grows easily in tough environments and thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. Therefore, it is ideal for growing in USDA zone 3. 

20. Purple millet  

Purple Millet is a warm-season ornamental grass that is popular for various landscaping scenes. It has beautiful green, broad leaves with attractive golden and purple hues.

It also produces a visually striking purple millet, creating a rare sight in your garden.  

Purple Millet can grow in any soil type, but it does best in light, well-drained soil.

It also performs well when exposed to full sun, especially the purple leaves variety, which needs maximum sun to develop a deep hue.

Therefore, it is recommended for planting in USADA zones 10 and 11. 

FAQs

These are the most commonly asked questions about ornamental grasses.

What ornamental grasses stay green year-round? 

Are you looking for evergreen ornamental grasses? While some ornamental grasses tend to change color or die out in some seasons, some stay green all year round.

These are a great idea for your garden as they maintain vibrant colors regardless of the season.  

Some of the top evergreen ornamental grasses you can find include Mexican feather grass, Japanese forest grass, pampas grass, and pink muhly grass.

NOTE: You might have to put in some winter protection with some of these grasses, depending on the zone.  

Are all ornamental grasses perennial? 

The most ornamental grasses you will come across are perennials. They live for two or more years and keep coming back year after year when they are cut or die off due to extreme weather.  

However, there are some annual ornamental grasses, which only survive for one season before dying off.

Examples include skyrocket grass, fireworks grass, and Red Riding Hood Pennisetum.

Some perennial grass might also behave as annuals when grown in zones where they are not hardy.  

What is the hardiest ornamental grass? 

Hardy ornamental grasses are a good idea when looking to boost the appearance of your garden/yard.

They have low maintenance and will grow easily with minimum effort. They are also tolerant to severe conditions such as drought, sun, and poor soils.  

There are several hardy ornamental types of grass you can find for your landscaping needs.

The hardiest ones include June grass, blue fescue grass, switchgrass, and needlegrass.  

Summary  

Ornamental perennial grasses are one of the best ideas for any landscaping work.

They add unique, round-the-year beauty to your garden, with some staying all-green year-round. Most of them are also hardy and require very little maintenance.  

Ornamental grasses can also be used for various other purposes, such as providing contrast to other landscape plants or even on fences.

If you are looking for some good perennial ornamental grasses, the above are some of the top ones that will keep coming year after year.  

Related Posts

• Common ornamental flowers with names and pictures

Carter

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

The post 20 best perennial ornamental grasses for landscaping appeared first on InsightWeeds.