Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum) is a perennial warm-season grass valued for its versatility and durability in subtropical climates. Characterized by a creeping, sod-forming growth habit, it is widely used as a low-maintenance turfgrass and a popular forage crop for livestock. Originating in South America, it was introduced to the United States in the early 20th century, primarily for pasture and erosion control.
Core Geographic Range
The geographic area where Bahia grass thrives is defined by the subtropical environment of the Southern United States. It is a dominant species across the entire Gulf Coast region, encompassing southern Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. Cultivation also extends throughout the southern Coastal Plain, reaching into Georgia and the Carolinas.
Cultivation has pushed its boundaries further north into Central Arkansas and Central Tennessee, particularly with cold-tolerant cultivars like ‘Pensacola’. Globally, its native range spans from Mexico through Central and South America, including Brazil and Argentina. These locations generally correspond to USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 8 through 11, providing the necessary warmth for survival. The grass covers millions of acres across the Southeast, serving as a low-input solution for pastures and roadsides. The most concentrated and successful growth occurs in the Deep South, characterized by intense summer heat and high atmospheric moisture.
Climate and Temperature Needs
As a warm-season species employing C4 photosynthesis, Bahia grass growth is dependent on high temperatures and long daylight hours. Optimal growth occurs when temperatures consistently remain between 59 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 35 degrees Celsius). This period, spanning late spring through summer, is when the grass produces the majority of its biomass.
The grass enters dormancy when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, causing top growth to turn brown and cease production. This poor cold tolerance limits its northern spread, as moderate frost events can kill exposed leaf tissue. Even winter-hardy varieties like ‘Pensacola’ have their top growth killed by frost, though established root systems can survive in milder climates.
Successful establishment requires warm air and high soil temperatures. Germination rates are best when the soil remains consistently between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The species requires full, direct sun exposure for robust growth. While it exhibits slightly better shade tolerance than grasses like Bermuda grass, optimal performance is achieved in unshaded environments.
Adapting to Soil and Water Conditions
Bahia grass distinguishes itself through its adaptation to low-fertility ground conditions. It performs exceptionally well in poor, sandy, and light-textured soils common across the Coastal Plain region, including the deep, sandy spodosols of Florida where other grasses struggle without heavy amendments.
The grass prefers acidic soil, thriving in a pH range between 4.0 and 6.5. Conversely, growth is impaired in soils with a pH above 6.5, which can induce iron deficiencies leading to pale foliage.
A defining characteristic is its extensive, deep, and fibrous root system, which can penetrate the soil up to six feet or more. This structure grants the grass exceptional drought tolerance, allowing it to withstand long periods of inconsistent rainfall better than many shallow-rooted alternatives. The species can also tolerate short periods of sporadic flooding or poorly drained conditions, underscoring its resilience in the subtropical South.