Zoysia japonica 'Compadre' is a warm-season turfgrass that spreads steadily via stolons and rhizomes to create a dense, resilient lawn across hardiness zones 5 through 10. This cultivar thrives in full sun and handles heat, drought, and poor soil conditions with remarkable composure, making it a smart choice for challenging landscapes. During the growing season, it displays an attractive green color and resists weeds naturally, though it will turn straw-colored during dormancy in colder months. Mow it to 1 to 2 inches tall and fertilize moderately from May through July for best results.
Full Sun
Moderate
5-10
6in H x 6in W
—
High
Hover over chart points for details
Zoysia spreads into a dense turf that resists weeds without relying on heavy chemical inputs. Its genuine strength lies in durability and low water needs once established, handling both drought and summer heat that would stress cool-season grasses. The trade-off is honest: it goes dormant and browns out in fall and winter, and it spreads slowly, which means patience is required during establishment. For gardeners in warm climates willing to accept seasonal dormancy, this grass handles neglect and heavy foot traffic far better than fussier alternatives.
Zoysia grass serves as a durable lawn and landscape turf. It excels in warm climates where it resists weeds and tolerates heat and drought stress. It's used in high-traffic areas, erosion-prone slopes, and regions where water conservation matters, since it requires less irrigation and fertilizer than conventional cool-season lawns once it's established.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Establish zoysia vegetatively by sod, sprigs, or plugs rather than seed. Plant sprigs and plugs in mid to late spring. Sod may be laid as late as early September.
Mow regularly to maintain a height of 1 to 2 inches tall throughout the growing season.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.