What Grass Should I Plant in South Florida?

Types

• The main two types of grasses gardeners might use in Florida are ground covers and ornamentals. Ground covers are good choices for lawns, play or lounging areas, as they provide a lush, green carpet. Ornamental grasses, which are taller and bushier, are good for borders, accents or other decorative purposes.

Ground Covers

• Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum Swartz) is an excellent choice for Florida, particularly in coastal areas, according to the University of Florida Extension. It is so salt-tolerant that it can grow in salt water. It also can tolerate some drought, floods, most types of soil and is fairly pest and disease resistant. Bermuda grass (Cynodon spp.) is so tough that it is used on athletic fields. It grows in densely and quickly but can be high maintenance with it's growing requirements and vulnerabilities to pests. For a rugged, rustic looking yard or shady spots, consider mondograss (Ophiopogon japonicus).

Ornamentals

• Mexican Feathergrass has delicate, hair-like blades that arch gracefully and sway in the breeze. They are beautiful accents in rock gardens or near boulders. Fountain grass is taller, with a gentle bend and showy pink spikes of flowers on the end, making them certain to draw attention to any area.