Korean Lawn Grass
Zoysia japonica
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Pl. 7FAC — Zoysia japonica
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IOverview
Overview
Korean Lawn Grass (Zoysia japonica) is a perennial graminoid native to regions including China North-Central and Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto, and Primorye. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows to a height of 0.2 meters and is known for its edible parts, which include the seed and stem. The grass has a wide pH tolerance ranging from 5.5 to 8.5, making it adaptable in various soil conditions. Its native range spans across East Asia, contributing to its cultural significance and practical use as both an ornamental plant and a food source.
Quick answers
What is Korean Lawn Grass?
Korean Lawn Grass (Zoysia japonica) is a perennial graminoid native to regions including China North-Central and Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto, and Primorye. This plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Korean Lawn Grass (Zoysia japonica) thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows to a height of 0.2 meters and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can use seeds or stems. The plant's edible parts include the seed and stem, making it useful both as a lawn grass and for culinary purposes. Ensure the soil pH ranges between 5.5 and 8.5 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Graminoid
Mature size
0.2 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–8.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Korean Lawn Grass for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Korean Lawn Grass to establish a beautiful, low-maintenance ground cover.
- 1
What you'll need
Korean Lawn Grass seeds or sod, garden tools like a spade and rake.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 8.5; loosen the topsoil if planting in containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
For seeds, scatter them evenly over prepared soil and lightly cover. For sod, lay it down and press firmly.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly during dry spells, especially in summer. Mow when grass reaches 2-3 inches high.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the grass annually in late winter to maintain a neat appearance and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular mowing, using incorrect soil pH, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:SeedStem
Edible uses: The Korean Lawn Grass (Zoysia japonica) is edible and can be consumed in various forms. The stems and seeds are typically harvested and prepared by drying or cooking before consumption. Skip the raw form as it may not be palatable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 17 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 17 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 9 native· 17 introduced
Asia6 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwan
introduced (2)IndiaMyanmar
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)HondurasPuerto Rico
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)Fiji
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto, Primorye, Ogasawara-shoto
introduced:Louisiana, Marianas, Maryland, Ontario, Tennessee, Virginia, Alabama, California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
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