Definition

Noun * A type of warm-season, perennial grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) known for its coarse texture, rapid growth in warm climates, and good shade tolerance. It is commonly used for lawns in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in the southern United States.

Usage

This noun refers specifically to a species of turfgrass. It is typically used in the context of gardening, landscaping, and lawn care. * As a common noun (uncountable): It refers to the grass as a ground cover or lawn material. * As a proper noun (often capitalized): The full name "St. Augustine grass" is often treated as a proper noun due to the "St." abbreviation.

Examples

• The homeowner decided to replace the patchy lawn with St. Augustine grass for its durability.
• St. Augustine grass requires regular watering during dry spells to stay green.
• A common problem for St. Augustine grass in this region is chinch bug damage.
• We are considering whether to seed with Bermuda grass or lay sod of St. Augustine grass.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in comparative discussions about lawn grasses, highlighting its advantages (shade tolerance, aggressive growth) and disadvantages (susceptibility to certain pests, high water needs) compared to other types like Bermuda grass or Zoysia grass.

Variants and Related Words

• St. Augustine (common shortened form): Often used conversationally. (e.g., "The backyard is planted with St. Augustine.")
• Buffalo grass (Note: This is a different species native to the North American plains, but the name is sometimes incorrectly used for St. Augustine grass in certain regions, leading to confusion.)
• Carpet grass (Another different species, but sometimes confused in general lawn discussions.)

Synonyms

• Stenotaphrum secundatum (The botanical/scientific name).
• Charleston grass (A regional name used in some areas).
• Turfgrass (A general term for grass species grown for lawns; St. Augustine is one specific type of turfgrass).

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To lay St. Augustine sod: This is a common phrase referring to the installation of this grass, which is most often propagated via sod (pre-grown grass rolls) or plugs, rather than seed.
• A St. Augustine lawn: A lawn specifically composed of this grass species.

Noun

1. low mat-forming grass of southern United States and tropical America; grown as a lawn grass