Zoysia japonica Seeds | Korean Grass
LATIN NAME: Zoysia japonica
COMMON NAME: Korean Grass
Plant Profile
Zoysia japonica, commonly known as Korean Grass, is a low, creeping, perennial. It spreads slowly by creeping stems and rhizomes into a tough, even lawn, and it stands cold winters, heat, drought and salt wind well. Full sun is ideal, in ordinary, well-drained ground. Together these qualities explain its long-standing appeal to gardeners.
Science & Biotechnology
The species features in the wider study of the Zoysia group, and its traits make it a useful subject for work on germination biology, cultivation and ornamental selection. Zoysia grass has a genuine and growing record in turfgrass and environmental research. Breeders and collectors still work with it, so well-kept seed remains available.
Uses & Benefits
Korean Grass works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Ecologically, zoysia grass is a tough and valuable grass. Its dense turf holds soil and prevents erosion, it stays green through heat and drought, and as a spreading perennial it forms a stable, low-maintenance ground cover in warm regions. It is one of the most widely used turf grasses in the world, grown for lawns, golf courses, parks and sports fields, and its low water and mowing needs make it increasingly valuable in research on sustainable landscapes. Establishment is uncomplicated, and afterwards ordinary care suffices.
Zoysia makes the dense, barefoot-soft lawns of Asia, drought-tough and slow to need mowing.
Growing from Seed
Starting Korean Grass from seed is simple and satisfying. Growing a zoysia lawn from seed is easy and gives excellent results with a little patience. Seeds are small and germinate best in warm, moist conditions, so sow them in late spring or early summer, when soil is warm, scattering them evenly over a prepared, weed-free seedbed. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in full sun. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Few garden plants carry such a documented history of use as this one does. Given the right start, Korean Grass is a long-term garden companion. Given full sun and free drainage, it asks for little routine attention.
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