Landscape Uses
Style Tags
South Florida Growing Guide
Light Requirements
Water Requirements
Once established (12–18 months), Fakahatchee Grass is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Moderate water. 2x per week dry season. Tolerates periodic flooding. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in wet prairie and drainage swale applications.
Soil and Fertilization
Fertilizer: Minimal balanced slow-release 8-2-12. Florida natives have very low nutrient requirements.
Schedule: February after cut and May with balanced slow-release. NATIVE — very low fertilization needs.
Salt Tolerance
- Mature Height
- 4–6 ft
- Mature Width
- 3–5 ft
- Growth Rate
- moderate-fast
- Water Demand
- 3/10
- Florida Grade
- Florida #1
- Installed Cost
- $$
- USDA Zones
- 6, 7, 8, 9, 10a, 10b, 11
- FLEPPC Status
- None
- Iguana Rating
- 7/10
Where to Buy in South Florida
Find Fakahatchee Grass at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Fakahatchee Grass grow in South Florida?
Fakahatchee Grass has a moderate-fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.
Is Fakahatchee Grass safe for pets?
Yes, Fakahatchee Grass is considered pet-safe.
How much water does Fakahatchee Grass need in South Florida?
Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Fakahatchee Grass is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.
Can Fakahatchee Grass tolerate salt air in South Florida?
Fakahatchee Grass has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.
Is Fakahatchee Grass available in Miami-Dade County?
In Miami-Dade County, Fakahatchee Grass is classified as: allowed. Allowed.
County Availability in South Florida
Miami-Dade County
Allowed. FLORIDA NATIVE.
USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.
View County Guide →Broward County
Allowed. Florida native.
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.
View County Guide →Palm Beach County
Allowed. Florida native.
USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.
View County Guide →Collier County
Allowed. Florida native.
USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.
View County Guide →Monroe County
Allowed. Limited Keys availability — source from mainland native plant nurseries.
USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.
View County Guide →Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.
Need a Spec Sheet?
Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.
Ask about Fakahatchee Grass
Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.