No Mow Grass
Zoysia grass is a popular landscaping grass and it is Zoysia tenuifolia which is a tropical spreading grass that is suited to sloping sites and lawns that is most popular. Loved by landscapers and gardeners alike for its drought-tolerant nature and the growth habit which requires little or no mowing.
Although it is suited for use as a lawn, it is not suited for use in high traffic areas, and this is because of its growth habit.
Over time Zoysia tenuifolia begins to mound, it develops bumps and lumps, it does great as dense lawn, however it is also very sculptural. When used on a sloping site it can be a landscaping feature all by itself.
With fine light green foliage Zoysia tenuifolia is a tough grass substitute. It sometimes refereed to as ‘no mow’ grass, it is tough, hard wearing and reasonably drought tolerant.
Landscaping Uses
- Used most commonly as an ornamental grass or no traffic lawn substitute.
- Can be used grow between pavers or flagstones.
- Interesting addition to a rock garden
- Softening feature for rock gardens, Zen, or minimal landscape
- Erosion-controlling groundcover on gentle slopes
Summary Information
- Height – To around 10 cm.
- Spread – To around 35 – 45 cm.
- Position – Full sun to light/part shade.
- Foliage – Fine light green.
- Drought Resistance – Excellent once established.
- Frost tolerant – Will tolerate light frosts once established.
- Fertiliser – A slow release fertiliser in spring is advisable. Water before and after fertilising.
How To Grow Zoysia tenuifolia – Basic Care
Best grown in warm humid climates Zoysia can be started from seed, plugs or ready to lay sod.
To keep it like a lawn, you will still need to mow it occasionally, however if you mow it often it will not look that good. It really needs to be left to develop its natural bumpy appearance.
Zoysia tenuifolia is available both as plugs, potted and as ready to lay instant turf depending on supplier.
Planting & Spacing Guide
- Establish from seed, plugs, pots, or turf squares (check local availability)
- Plant during warm months for rapid establishment and weed competition
- Space plugs 25–30 cm apart for quickest coverage
Watering & Feeding Tips
- Infrequent deep watering encourages drought resilience
- Feed with a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in spring to maintain leaf colour and density
- Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, which may disrupt mounding form
Best planted in warmer months as they will spread more quickly and therefore prevent weeds from colonising bare patches between the seedlings. Over time they will spread to form a dense matt.
Related Zoysia Varieties
Consider these when prioritizing traffic-resistance or cool climate adaptation
- Zoysia japonica (e.g., ‘Empire’): More cold-hardy; tolerates moderate traffic
- Zoysia macrantha (e.g., ‘Nara’): Superb for coastal or sandy soils; robust performance
Where To Buy – Wholesale Suppliers
email ask@plantmark.com.au
One of Australia's largest wholesale trade nurseries. Over 30,000 species available, tubestock to advanced trees, an almost unlimited choice of plants.
www.plantmark.com.au
You May Also Like
