Contents
Description
Stenotaphrum Secundatum, commonly known as St. Augustine grass, is a warm-season grass that is native to the Gulf of Mexico and the Mediterranean region. It is a popular grass used for lawns in warm climates due to its tolerance for heat, humidity, and salt. It has a coarse texture and can grow up to 8 inches tall if left uncut. It is a fast-growing grass that spreads by stolons.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Cyperales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Stenotaphrum |
Appearance
Stenotaphrum Secundatum has a coarse texture and a blue-green color. It has broad leaves that are up to 8 inches long and 1 inch wide. The grass can grow up to 8 inches tall if left uncut, but is typically kept much shorter for use as a lawn. It spreads by stolons and can form a dense turf if properly cared for.
Care Guide
Stenotaphrum Secundatum requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization should be done every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. It prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. Stenotaphrum Secundatum is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stenotaphrum Secundatum is susceptible to pests such as chinch bugs, sod webworms, and armyworms. It can also be affected by diseases such as brown patch and large patch. Proper lawn care practices, such as regular mowing and fertilization, can help prevent pest and disease problems.
Habitat
Stenotaphrum Secundatum is native to the Gulf of Mexico and the Mediterranean region. It prefers warm, humid climates and is commonly used for lawns in the southern United States, the Caribbean, and South America.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Stenotaphrum Secundatum be watered?
A: Stenotaphrum Secundatum should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for Stenotaphrum Secundatum?
A: Stenotaphrum Secundatum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH between 5.5 and 7.5 is ideal.
Q: Can Stenotaphrum Secundatum tolerate shade?
A: Stenotaphrum Secundatum prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: When should Stenotaphrum Secundatum be fertilized?
A: Stenotaphrum Secundatum should be fertilized every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Stenotaphrum americanum
- Stenotaphrum dimidiatum
- Stenotaphrum glabrum
References
- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/LH/LH01000.pdf
- https://www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/grasses/st-augustinegrass/
- https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-database/grasses/st-augustine-grass.aspx
