Species spotlight: Buffalo grass

Have you ever considered if Buffalos prefer to eat Buffalo grass? Or perhaps the Buffalo grass species has only crossed you mind when considering what type of grass you should get for your lovely new lawn?

If that's that case your're in the right place - read on to find out more about Bouteloua dactyloides.

Buffalo grass would be easily Australia's favourite lawn grass. In the past it was referred to as Ol' Scratchy because of its coarse and sharp leaves. Nowdays the majority of buffalo grasses are soft leaved varieties which are extremely versatile. They grow well in sandy, lightly salty or even alkaline soils. They grow beautifully in either full sun plus they are one of the best choices for a shady area.

Common brand names of buffalo grass are:

• Sapphire

• Matilda

• Sir Walter

• Palmetto

• Shademaster

• ST Varieties

There will be differences between these brands. Each will have it's own breeding which will determine its performance. There are many reviews on the strengths and weaknesses of the different varities and Marvellous Mowing recommends considering carefully what variety will suit your specific location.