Soft Leaf Buffalo: Low-Maintenance and Water-Efficient Grass Type

Scientific name Stenotephrum Secundatum, Buffalo is a broad leaf grass variety notable for its shade tolerance and slow growing nature. A highly popular lawn, Buffalo is very prominant in Australian yards due to its well received aesthetic. The most common Buffalo seen today is soft leaf Sir Walter Buffalo.

Soft Leaf Buffalo - Worth the hype?

Provides a soft surface
Broader leaf for more efficient photosynthesis
Not prone to insect damage common in most other turf varieties
Many cultivars available
Less likely to spread into gardens
Renovation work is relatively low
High levels of disease resilience
Shade tolerant
Thick and broad leaf creates resiliency toward weed growth
Low levels of allergy and irritability
Lacks sharp edges of regular buffalo
Retains colour well throughout winter

Below you will find information on a selection of Buffalo cultivars that we recommend.

All ratings are on a scale of 1-5, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. Water- the amount of water required. Softness- the softness of the turf. Growth rate- the speed of lawn growth. Activity- the turfs ability to cope with high levels of activity on the lawn. Maintenance- how much is required to maintain the turf. Evasiveness- the rate at which the turf spreads into garden beds etc.. Sun- the amount of sun the cultivar requires.

Matilda

Water

Softness

Growth rate

Activity

Maintenance

Evasiveness

Sun

Sir Walter

Water

Softness

Growth rate

Activity

Maintenance

Evasiveness

Sun

Sir Walter Buffalo- An Aussie Favourite

Retains its colour well
Slow growing- less frequent mowing
Not invasive
Soft
No sharp edges
Less irritability
Shade tolerant
Less water requirements than most buffalo varieties
Higher regenerative qualities than most buffalo varieties

All Sir Walter Buffalo installed by Green Oasis Lawn and Reticulation is officially DNA certified, with proof of certification provided.

Buffalo with Green Oasis

Buffalo is often the most desired for landscaped gardens, with its stunning broad leaf completing a beautiful scape. While the differences between Buffalo are subtle, they are many. Colour, leaf width, softness are just a few, while budget may also come in to play. But, whether Palmetto or Sir Walter, and all of those in between, Green Oasis Guarantee™ always applies. Inquire today to have your own piece of Australia’s favourite lawn.

Soft Leaf Buffalo Grass Frequently Asked Questions

What is Soft Leaf Buffalo Grass?

Buffalo grass is a long-lasting, low-maintenance perennial that looks lush, soft, and green in full shade and tolerates up to 70% shade. This warm-season grass is an excellent all-purpose choice for Australian homes because the new generations of Buffalo have been developed with softer leaf blades, making them softer underfoot.

Is Sir Walter Grass a Buffalo Grass?

YES! Among the buffalo varieties, Sir Walter buffalo grass is one of the finest performers in shaded regions and can survive on as little as three hours of sunshine per day.

Be wary of counterfeiters! Only accredited Lawn Solutions Australia members and resellers can supply genuine Sir Walter DNA Certified. Green Oasis Lawn and Reticulation’s Sir Walter Buffalo are all officially DNA certified, with documentation to verify it.

What is the Best Buffalo Grass in Australia?

For a reason, Sir Walter DNA Certified are Australia’s preferred variety! They’re drought-tolerant, well-shaded, and nonallergenic.

Does Buffalo Grass Grow in Shade?

Buffalo grass is a shaded-adapted lawn. Not only does it have the greatest shade tolerance of any warm season grass, but it also performs worse in full light.

Which Grass is Better? Couch Grass or Buffalo Grass?

Choosing between a variety of types of grass is a personal decision. While couch turf has its benefits, such as toughness and cost, buffalo grass is more appropriate for a wider range of Australian areas. Buffalo grass is more hardy, can endure greater shade, and needs considerably less upkeep.