Manila Grass: A Dense Carpet for Warm Climate Lawns
If you’re dreaming of a lush, carpet-like lawn that can handle foot traffic and coastal conditions, Manila grass might have caught your attention. This warm-season perennial grass creates the kind of dense, emerald green turf that makes neighbors pause and admire. But before you roll out the sod, let’s dig into what makes this grass tick and whether it’s the right fit for your landscape.
What Exactly is Manila Grass?
Manila grass (Zoysia matrella var. matrella) is a fine-textured, warm-season grass that belongs to the graminoid family – basically, it’s a true grass that forms dense, uniform carpets. You might also see it listed under its former scientific name, Agrostis matrella. This perennial grass has earned a reputation for creating some of the most visually striking lawns in warm climates.
The Non-Native Reality Check
Here’s something important to know upfront: Manila grass isn’t native to the United States. It’s an introduced species that has naturalized in several states and territories. While it’s not currently classified as invasive or noxious, it’s worth considering native grass alternatives that can provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems.
Currently, you’ll find Manila grass growing in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, New Mexico, North Carolina, as well as in Guam, Palau, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Minor Outlying Islands. Originally from coastal areas of East Asia, this grass has adapted well to similar climates in the United States.
Why Gardeners Choose Manila Grass
There are several compelling reasons why homeowners gravitate toward this particular grass:
- Durability: It handles foot traffic like a champ, making it perfect for active families
- Coastal tolerance: Salt spray doesn’t faze this tough grass, ideal for beachfront properties
- Drought resilience: Once established, it can handle dry spells without constant watering
- Dense growth: Creates a thick carpet that naturally crowds out weeds
- Fine texture: Provides that premium lawn look with its delicate leaf structure
The Growing Requirements
Manila grass thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, so it’s really only suitable for warm, subtropical to tropical climates. Here’s what this grass needs to flourish:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade, though it performs best with plenty of direct sunlight
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential – waterlogged conditions are a no-go
- Temperature: Warm soil temperatures for establishment and growth
- Space: Room to spread, as it forms dense mats through underground stems
Planting and Care Tips
Getting Manila grass established requires a bit more patience than throwing down some seed, but the results are worth it:
- Installation method: Typically planted from sod, plugs, or sprigs rather than seed
- Timing: Plant during warm months when soil temperatures are consistently above 70°F
- Watering: Keep consistently moist during establishment, then reduce to deep, infrequent watering
- Fertilization: Feed during the active growing season with a balanced fertilizer
- Mowing: Maintain at appropriate height for the variety, typically 1-2 inches
Consider Native Alternatives
While Manila grass can create beautiful lawns, consider exploring native warm-season grasses that provide similar benefits while supporting local wildlife and requiring fewer inputs. Native options like buffalo grass or regional native sedges might offer the durability you’re seeking while being better environmental citizens.
The Bottom Line
Manila grass delivers on its promise of creating dense, attractive turf in warm climates, especially in coastal areas where salt tolerance matters. However, as a non-native species, it’s worth weighing against native alternatives that can provide similar aesthetic and functional benefits while supporting local ecosystems. If you do choose Manila grass, prepare for the investment in proper installation and the patience required for establishment – but also get ready to enjoy one seriously impressive lawn.
