Centipede Grass

(Eremochloa ophiuroides)

Centipede Grass (Eremochloa ophiuroides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Eremochloa ophiuroides, commonly known as centipede grass, is a perennial, warm-season grass native to Southeast Asia, including Southern China and the surrounding regions. It is adapted to the acidic, sandy soils of forest clearings and open grasslands in its native habitat. Centipede grass forms dense, thick sods and spreads by stolons, creating a uniform ground cover. It has a medium to light green color and a coarse texture, with short, upright stems that can grow up to 3-5 inches tall. The grass has a slow growth rate, which reduces the need for frequent mowing.

Centipede grass is valued for its low maintenance requirements, as it has low fertility needs and moderate drought tolerance once established. It is often used for lawns in the southeastern United States and Hawaii due to its ability to thrive in poor, acidic soils where other grasses may struggle. However, it does not tolerate heavy foot traffic well. Centipede grass prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including ground pearl scale and fungal diseases like dollar spot and brown patch. While it is potentially invasive in some parts of the world, it is generally not considered aggressive. Before planting centipede grass outside of its native range, it is crucial to check local regulations to ensure it is not invasive in your area.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Grass
  • Height: 0.2-0.5 feet
  • Width: 3-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Adapted to the acidic, sandy soils of forest clearings and open grasslands in Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Ribbon Grass , Lazy-Man’s Grass , 외대쇠치기아재비

Scientific Names: Eremochloa ophiuroides , Agrostis crinita , Agrostis crinita , Andropogon ophiuroides , Eremochloa ciliaris subsp. longifolia , Eremochloa ophiuroides subsp. longifolia , Eremochloa ophiuroides var. longifolia , Ischaemum ophiuroides

GBIF Accepted Name: