Poaceae
Broadleaf carpet grass Care Guide
Axonopus compressus
A low-growing, warm-season grass that spreads by creeping stolons and forms dense mats. The image shows a grass-like groundcover, but exact identification is uncertain because no close-up of the inflorescence or ligule is visible.
View GalleryCare Overview
Light
Full sun to partial shade; growth is strongest with several hours of direct light.
Follow species light needs for best growth.
Water
Keep moderately moist while establishing; established plants tolerate short dry periods but perform best with regular watering.
Adjust watering to pot size and season.
Temperature
Warm conditions, ideally 20–35°C; growth slows significantly in cool weather.
Avoid sudden temperature swings.
Humidity
Moderate to high humidity is tolerated, with good airflow to reduce fungal problems.
Match humidity to the plant’s native climate when possible.
Soil
Well-draining mix
Use a mix suited to the species (cactus, tropical, etc.).
Pet Safe
Generally considered non-toxic to pets, though eating large quantities of any grass may cause stomach upset.
Generally non-toxic; avoid grass treated with herbicides or pesticides.
Detailed Care Instructions
Light
Grow in full sun to partial shade. More light usually produces denser growth, while deep shade can cause thinning.
Water
Water regularly during establishment and extended dry weather. Avoid persistently waterlogged soil.
Feeding
Apply a balanced lawn fertilizer during active warm-season growth. Follow the product rate to prevent excessive, weak growth.
Soil and mowing
Use moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Mow high enough to leave the blades about 4–7 cm tall and avoid scalping.
How to Propagate
- 1
Separate stolons
Lift rooted runners from an established patch and divide them into sections containing roots and nodes.
- 2
Plant runners
Place each section in moist soil with the nodes touching the surface, then firm the soil gently around it.
- 3
Keep evenly moist
Water regularly until new roots and shoots develop. Gradually reduce watering as the new patch becomes established.
Common Problems & Solutions
Brown or thinning patches
CommonDrought, heavy traffic, low fertility, or excessive shade can weaken the turf.
What to do:
- Water deeply during prolonged dry periods.
- Reduce traffic on damaged areas.
- Improve light or reseed thin sections with rooted runners.
Fungal lawn disease
OccasionalExtended leaf wetness and poor airflow may cause brown spots or leaf lesions.
What to do:
- Water early in the day.
- Avoid overwatering and excessive nitrogen.
- Improve drainage and remove heavily infected debris.
Weeds and invasive grasses
CommonOpen or weak areas can be colonized by broadleaf weeds or other grasses.
What to do:
- Maintain dense growth through proper mowing and feeding.
- Hand-remove weeds before they seed.
- Use only a lawn herbicide labeled as safe for this grass.
Toxicity Information & Safety Guide
Pets
SafeThe grass itself is generally regarded as non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Symptoms:
- Large amounts may cause mild vomiting or digestive upset.
- Grass treated with chemicals can be hazardous.
What to do:
- Prevent access to recently treated areas.
- Contact a veterinarian if persistent vomiting or unusual symptoms occur.
Children/Humans
SafeThe plant is not generally considered poisonous, but it is not intended for eating.
Symptoms:
- Ingestion may cause minor stomach discomfort.
- Contaminated blades may cause poisoning.
What to do:
- Rinse the mouth and remove plant material.
- Seek medical advice if a large amount or treated grass was swallowed.
Handling
CautionBlades can cause minor scratches, and cut grass may harbor irritants or contaminants.
Risks:
- Minor skin irritation or scratches.
- Exposure to lawn chemicals or plant debris.
Precautions:
- Wear gloves when clearing dense growth.
- Wash hands after handling.
- Do not handle grass recently treated with chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Broadleaf carpet grass?
Keep moderately moist while establishing; established plants tolerate short dry periods but perform best with regular watering.. Adjust watering to pot size and season.
What light does Broadleaf carpet grass need?
Full sun to partial shade; growth is strongest with several hours of direct light.. Follow species light needs for best growth.
Is Broadleaf carpet grass toxic to pets?
Generally considered non-toxic to pets, though eating large quantities of any grass may cause stomach upset.. Generally non-toxic; avoid grass treated with herbicides or pesticides.
How do I propagate Broadleaf carpet grass?
Separate stolons: Lift rooted runners from an established patch and divide them into sections containing roots and nodes.
What are common problems with Broadleaf carpet grass?
Brown or thinning patches. Drought, heavy traffic, low fertility, or excessive shade can weaken the turf.
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