Zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.) History, Utilization, and Improvement in the United States: A Review

Since its introduction into the United States in 1892, zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp. Willd.) has made a tremendous impact on the US turfgrass industry. Three species of zoysiagrass [Z. japonica Steud., Z. matrella (L.) Merr., and Z. pacifica (Goudswaard) M. Hotta & S. Kuroki] collected from East Asia and the Pacific Islands were introduced into the United States and are used directly as turf or by turfgrass breeders in the development of advanced lines. Golf courses, lawns, grounds, sod farms, athletic fields, roadsides, and airports are some of the many locations where zoysiagrass is used. While almost 50 improved cultivars of zoysiagrass have been developed to date, active efforts to improve zoysiagrass further and expand its utilization are ongoing. These continued improvements in stress and pest tolerance allow for expanded use of this low-input turf species. This review summarizes the history of zoysiagrass in the United States; summarizes species introduction and utilization; addresses and discusses strengths and shortcomings of the species; evaluates breeding history, methodology, and challenges; and suggests future prospects and potential for zoysiagrass.