Zoysia species are low sod-forming grasses and spread by strong branching rhizomes (underground stems) or stolons. The wiry leaves are flat or somewhat curled and have a high silica content. The minute flowers are borne in dense cylindrical inflorescences.
The plants are fairly resistant to pests and diseases. The leaves are fine-bladed in both the Manila and Mascarene grasses. They are excellent cover for flat sandy open areas and are widely used as lawn grasses.
