Sporobolus virginicus
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
Seashore dropseed (Sporobolus virginicus) is a creeping, salt-tolerant native grass found along coastal shorelines of the southeastern United States and tropics, forming dense low mats of fine, wiry foliage. It is valued for shoreline stabilization, erosion control, and as a low-maintenance turf alternative in coastal landscapes. For sale in St. Augustine, FL from $6.95.
Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season.
Retains foliage through winter.
Seashore dropseed requires full sun and is naturally found in open coastal environments in NE Florida. It will not form its characteristic dense mat in shade — site in fully exposed, sunny coastal or garden locations.
Tolerates a wide moisture range — from periodically inundated brackish or saline soils to moderately dry sandy soils typical of NE Florida beaches. Low to moderate irrigation is appropriate; once established it is highly drought tolerant and needs little supplemental water.
Thrives in NE Florida's sandy, well-drained or occasionally wet coastal soils. No fertilization is typically needed — it is adapted to nutrient-poor coastal conditions. Its rhizomatous spreading habit makes it excellent as an erosion-control groundcover or turf alternative in salty coastal landscapes.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Seashore Dropseed is a grass for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 1-1.5 feet × 2-3 feet.
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.
