Zoysia

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At-A-Glance Information

This genus of perennial grasses is native to Asia, and are slow spreaders, needing full sun and moderate to regular water. They are dormant in wintertime, turning straw-colored. Zoysia is a great groundcover or lawn, and can be mown to about an inch or two tall.

zoysia Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Stipa vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Zoysia 'Emerald' (Emerald Zoysia)
Best in zones 8, 9, 12-14, 18-24, H1 and H2. It is a hybrid species between Zoysia japonica and Zoysia tenuifolia. It creates wiry, dark green turf that is hard to cut. It is more frost tolerant than other species of Zoysia.

Zoysia japonica 'Meyer' ('Z-52') (Meyer Zoysia)
Best in zones 8, 9, 12-14, 18-24, H1 and H2, this species resembles Bluegrass (Poa). It turns brown early in wintertime, and turns green late in spring. Popularly grown varieties have increased durability and are quicker to establish themselves, and include 'De Anza', 'El Toro', and 'Victoria'.

Zoysia matrella (Manila Grass)
Similar to Bluegrass (Poa) in appearance, and best in zones 8, 9, 12-14, 18-24, H1 and H2. Holds its color a little later into the year than Zoysia japonica.

Zoysia tenuifolia (Korean Grass)
This species grows well in zones 8, 9, 12-24, H1 and H2. It is creeping, with a fine texture, and makes a great meadow. This species can also give the effect of moss in areas that are a bit ignored in the garden.