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Seashore Paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum) growing in South Florida
Florida NativeFFL QualifiedGrade Florida #1

Seashore Paspalum — South Florida Plant Guide

Paspalum vaginatum

Family: Poaceae · Grass

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

turf lawncoastal lawngolf courseerosion control

Style Tags

florida nativecoastalturfpet friendly

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full Sun

Water Requirements

Low3/10

Once established (12–18 months), Seashore Paspalum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

SFWMD drought exempt as Florida native. Can be irrigated with reclaimed water, well water, or brackish water — one of the most salt-tolerant irrigation tolerances of any turf grass. Moderate water demand. Mow and maintain at 1-2 inch height for conventional lawn use. Goes semi-dormant in winter — reduce irrigation during off-color winter period.

Soil and Fertilization

sandycoastalwell drainedloam

Fertilizer: Balanced turf fertilizer 15-0-15 or similar. Iron supplement if off-color.

Schedule: April, June, and September. Balanced turf fertilizer with micronutrients.

Salt Tolerance

High (10/10) — suitable for coastal locations

Suitable for coastal planting across all 5 South Florida counties.

Mature Height
0.250.67 ft
Mature Width
00 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$
USDA Zones
8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
3/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Seashore Paspalum at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Seashore Paspalum grow in South Florida?

Seashore Paspalum has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Seashore Paspalum safe for pets?

Yes, Seashore Paspalum is considered pet-safe. Non-toxic to dogs and cats. Confirmed safe for pet-accessible turf areas.

How much water does Seashore Paspalum need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Seashore Paspalum is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Seashore Paspalum tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Seashore Paspalum has high salt tolerance (10/10) and is well-suited for coastal South Florida, including areas with salt air in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Collier, and Monroe counties.

Is Seashore Paspalum available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Seashore Paspalum is classified as: protected. Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Protected

Florida native — protected from HOA prohibition under Florida Statute 720.3075.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Protected

Florida native — protected. Excellent for Broward barrier island properties.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Protected

Florida native — protected. Good for Palm Beach barrier island and coastal properties.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Protected

Florida native — protected. Excellent for Marco Island and Collier coastal properties.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Protected

Florida native — protected. EXCELLENT for Florida Keys coastal properties — salt tolerance 10/10 means it thrives in Keys saltwater environment where all other turf grasses fail.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

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Ask about Seashore Paspalum

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