Zoysia Japonica
Contents
Description
Zoysia Japonica, also known as Japanese lawngrass, is a warm-season grass that originated in East Asia. It is a slow-growing, drought-tolerant grass that forms a dense, green turf. Zoysia Japonica is popular for use in lawns, golf courses, and sports fields due to its durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Zoysia |
Appearance
Zoysia Japonica has a fine-textured, medium to dark green blade that is soft to the touch. Its leaves are narrow and pointed, and its stems are flat and short. Zoysia Japonica grows to a height of 1 to 2 inches and has a spreading growth habit. Its roots can grow up to 6 feet deep, making it drought-tolerant and able to access nutrients and water from deeper soil layers.
Care Guide
Water: Zoysia Japonica requires moderate watering, about 1 inch of water per week. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.Fertilization: Fertilize Zoysia Japonica in the late spring or early summer with a slow-release fertilizer. Repeat every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season.Soil: Zoysia Japonica prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels. It is important to aerate the soil periodically to encourage deep root growth.Sunlight: Zoysia Japonica requires full sun to grow and thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will lead to thinning and poor growth.Hardiness Zones: Zoysia Japonica is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zoysia Japonica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by certain issues. Some common pests include chinch bugs, armyworms, and grubs. Diseases that may affect Zoysia Japonica include dollar spot, brown patch, and rust.
Habitat
Zoysia Japonica is native to East Asia and is commonly found in warm and humid climates. It is grown as a lawn grass in many parts of the world, including the United States, Australia, and South Africa.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Zoysia Japonica tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Zoysia Japonica is drought-tolerant and can survive extended periods without water.
Q: How often should I fertilize Zoysia Japonica?
A: Fertilize Zoysia Japonica in the late spring or early summer, and then repeat every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Zoysia Japonica?
A: Zoysia Japonica can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, but the ideal pH range is between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: Does Zoysia Japonica grow well in shade?
A: Zoysia Japonica requires full sun to grow and thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will lead to thinning and poor growth.
Related Plants
- Zoysia Tenuifolia
- Zoysia Matrella
- Zoysia Emerald
- Zoysia Meyer
References
- “Zoysia Japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c508.
- “Zoysia Japonica.” NC State Extension. https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/zoysia-japonica.
- “Zoysia Japonica.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/lh010.
