Ecological Implications of Zoysia Species, Distribution and Adaptation for Management and Use of Zoysiagrasses

The genus Zoysia Willd. comprises ±10 recognized species indigenous to the western Pacific rim and Indian Ocean, which are collectively called “zoysiagrasses”.  Three species – Z. japonica Steud., Z. matrella (L.) Merr. and Z. pacifica (Goudswaard) M. Hotta & S. Kuroki (previously referred to as Z. tenuifolia) – plus interspecific hybrids have a long history of use as warm-season perennial turf and ornamental grasses in many countries.  Recently, cultivars from two other species, Z. macrantha Desv. and Z. sinica Hance have also been developed.  Breeders are currently exploring the potential to incorporate attributes from these and other Zoysia species into future zoysiagrass cultivars through hybridization.  The attributes of Zoysia turfgrass cultivars – their strengths and limitations – can be related back to the species and germplasm from which they have been derived, and which (together with growth and development characteristics unique to the zoysiagrasses) ultimately determine their adaptation, use and management.  Differences in temperature, shade, drought, salinity, herbicide and traffic tolerance, differences in pest and disease profiles, and differences in nutritional and mowing requirements among zoysiagrasses and comparisons with Cynodon spp. turfgrasses are highlighted.