Seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Seashore paspalum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Seashore paspalum
Paspalum vaginatum, commonly known as seashore paspalum or saltgrass, is a dense, low-growing perennial grass ideal for coastal and saline areas. It is characterized by its bright green leaves and high resistance to adverse conditions. It's perfect for ground cover in beach gardens, golf courses, and areas where other grasses would not thrive due to salinity.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical coasts of America, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth, although it tolerates some partial shade. It is very drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering in very dry climates, and tolerates waterlogged soils. It prefers sandy or loamy soils with good drainage, and is exceptionally tolerant of salinity. A common mistake to avoid is over-fertilization, as it can promote excessive and less dense growth.
How to save a dying Seashore paspalum
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or whitish leaves, stunted growth, brown spots.
- First aid
- Check soil pH (ideal 6.0-7.5), fertilize with nitrogen if deficient, adjust watering.
- What kills it
- Excessive soil salinity (though tolerant, too much stresses it), nutrient deficiency, or improper pH.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if causes are corrected quickly. It is very resilient.