First spotted in the Everglades

Brazos Zoysiagrass (FAES 1319) has been introduced as an improved grass variety for the southern half of the United States while extending the reach of warm-season zoysiagrass varieties north.

Developed by the University of Florida’s Turfgrass Breeding Program, Brazos is a medium-fine bladed zoysiagrass featuring superior drought resistance, early spring green-up and excellent fall color retention. It offers robust disease resistance and shade tolerance, good cold tolerance and the ability to withstand higher salt content. Brazos provides a dense, high-quality turfgrass ideal for golf courses, home lawns, parks and commercial applications.

Brazos features an origin story that is as unique as its exceptional qualities. Discovered in 2006 during a family outing in the Florida Everglades, this distinctive plant was the only one among a sea of zoysiagrass that displayed the leaf texture typical of Zoysia japonica. Initially labeled Glades #4 and later UFZ11, it entered the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program as FAES1319 in 2013 and 2019.

Dr. Kevin Kenworthy, professor, UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, highlighted Brazos’ journey through extensive trials at multiple universities, including Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, the University of Georgia and NC State. Brazos demonstrated persistence under drought conditions, retaining quality during dry periods and recovering quickly with rain or irrigation. This resilience, combined with its performance in various environments, positioned Brazos as a top performer in two NTEP trials, consistently ranking high for turf quality, drought and disease resistance, winter color retention and overall consistency.

“Brazos was one of the best-performing lines trialed throughout Florida, excelling in establishment, drought tolerance, winter color retention and consistent performance,” Kenworthy said.

Brazos has proven adaptable from Florida’s warm climates to colder regions, reinforcing its versatility and robustness. It was developed by the University of Florida’s turfgrass breeding program under a sponsored research service agreement with the Turfgrass Producers of Florida, Inc.