Eremochloa ophiuroides aka Lazy Man's Grass

Eremochloa ophiuroides, or centipedegrass, is a perennial lawn grass. It belongs to Poaceae, the grass family. Its native range spans southern China and northern Vietnam. It also includes southern Korea and Taiwan. This warm-season grass spreads through creeping stems called stolons. These stems form a dense turf as they grow. Its slow growth suits lawns that need little upkeep.

The leaves give the lawn a coarse, light green look. Each narrow blade has smooth surfaces and an unbroken edge. A white midvein runs along the leaf. The tips range from somewhat pointed to blunt. Short hairs grow on the ligule at the leaf base. Leaves sit in an alternate pattern along the stems. The green stems are smooth and lack a scent. Some run along the ground, while others grow upright.

Purple flowers appear in summer in a spike-like raceme. These flower clusters reach about 0.25–0.42 feet [0.08–0.13 metres] long. Seedheads stand about 0.25–0.42 feet [0.08–0.13 metres] tall. The spikelets turn brown as they ripen. The fruit is a small grain called a caryopsis. For lawn care, mow when growth reaches 0.08–0.17 feet [0.025–0.05 metres]. This helps limit the buildup of thatch.

Centipedegrass grows best in full sun but accepts some shade. Deep shade does not suit it. It prefers acid soil with good drainage. Both sandy and loamy soils can support it. Moist soil suits it, though it accepts brief dry spells. Drought, compacted ground, and high soil pH cause problems. It also fares poorly where soil phosphorus is high. North Carolina State Extension lists USDA hardiness zones 7a through 10b. The grass tolerates heat and humidity but not much foot traffic.

Its main use is a lawn with modest care needs. It needs less frequent mowing and feeding than intensive lawn care demands. Sod is the preferred way to start a lawn. Seed may take two or three years to cover the ground. Thatch may need removal every two or three years. Its shallow roots call for care during that work. Excess water or fertilizer can raise the risk of fungal disease. Listed insect problems include wireworms and green June beetles. Creeping growth can also spread into nearby flower beds.