Zoysia Grass
Zoysia japonica
An elegant warm-season grass that creates one of the most beautiful and low-maintenance lawns possible, with a dense, carpet-like texture that crowds out weeds naturally. Once established, this slow-growing grass requires minimal watering and fertilizing while providing excellent heat and drought tolerance. Its fine texture and rich green color make it a premium choice for homeowners wanting a gorgeous lawn with less work.
Sun
Full sun to light shade
Zones
5β11
USDA hardiness
Height
5 inches
Planting Timeline
Showing dates for Zoysia Grass in USDA Zone 7
All Zone 7 grass βZone Map
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Zoysia Grass Β· Zones 5β11
Growing Details
Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Loam (Silt), Sand. Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist. Growth rate: Slow. Maintenance: ZOY-zhΙ. Regions: Coastal, Mountains, Piedmont.
Harvesting
seedhead a spikelet, with seeds alternating along the head
Type: Caryopsis. Length: < 1 inch. Width: < 1 inch.
Harvest time: Summer
Bloom time: Summer
History & Origin
Origin: Asia
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Drought, Erosion, Foot Traffic, Heat, Humidity
Companion Plants
Plant Together
White Clover
Fixes nitrogen in soil, low-growing, complements grass growth without competing
Wild Strawberry
Low groundcover that thrives in similar conditions, attracts beneficial insects
Ajuga
Shade-tolerant groundcover that fills gaps where zoysia struggles in low light
Liriope
Similar water and soil requirements, provides border definition and texture contrast
Mondo Grass
Complementary ornamental grass with similar cultural needs and growth habits
Sedums
Drought-tolerant succulents that thrive in similar sunny, well-drained conditions
Native Wildflowers
Support beneficial insects and pollinators while tolerating zoysia's growing conditions
Ornamental Onions
Deter grubs and other lawn pests that damage zoysia roots
Keep Apart
Tall Fescue
Aggressive cool-season grass that competes heavily and creates patchy appearance
Bermuda Grass
Invasive warm-season grass that outcompetes and overtakes zoysia through runners
Annual Ryegrass
Fast-growing temporary grass that weakens zoysia by competing for resources during establishment
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Excellent disease resistance, very few problems
Common Pests
Grubs, chinch bugs, occasionally billbugs
Diseases
Brown patch in extreme conditions, generally disease-free