Buffalo grass is one of Australia’s most popular lawn choices. It’s loved for its shade tolerance, soft leaf in many varieties, and forgiving nature — perfect for family yards, native-looking landscapes and low-effort green areas.
But “buffalo” isn’t a single thing: the term covers a handful of different species groups and many modern cultivars bred for particular climates, shade, traffic levels and maintenance expectations.
Below we’ll explain the main types you’ll see in Australia, what each is good for, and how to choose the best one for your lawn.
The big picture: species groups and cultivars
When people talk about “buffalo grass” in Australia they usually mean grasses in the Stenotaphrum or Stenotaphrum secundatum group (often called “St Augustine” in some regions), and a range of related cultivars that turf producers have developed. Broadly they fall into three practical categories:
- Soft-leaf buffalo
These cultivars have a finer, softer texture and a dense, green appearance. They’re very shade tolerant and finger-friendly, which makes them a favourite for family yards and gardens with trees. - Hard-leaf buffalo
Hard-leaf types have coarser blades, are sometimes tougher under high wear and more drought resilient, but can feel less lush underfoot. They’re often chosen for higher-use areas where durability matters. - Hybrid / improved cultivars
Breeders have developed many named cultivars that combine traits: improved colour, disease resistance, lower mowing needs, quicker recovery and better wear tolerance. These named turf varieties (sold as branded turf) are typically the safest pick when you want consistent results.
Common buffalo varieties in Australia (what you’ll see at garden centres or turf suppliers)
Below are several buffalo varieties commonly sold or referenced around Australia. These are representative examples — new cultivars appear from time to time — but these names are widely recognised by landscapers and home-owners.
- Sir Walter (Soft Leaf Buffalo)
Possibly the most widely sold buffalo variety in Australia. It’s known for excellent shade tolerance, soft leaf and good cold tolerance for a buffalo. There’s also Sir Walter DNA Certified seed/turf sold as a guaranteed clone. - Palmetto
A soft-leaf variety with a fine blade and good shade tolerance. Palmetto is often used where a softer look and feel is preferred. - Sapphire
A darker green, dense cultivar valued for its appearance and relatively good wear tolerance. It’s often chosen where aesthetics are important. - Hard-leaf buffalo (generic)
There are several hard-leaf selections and proprietary blends used where robustness and drought tolerance are priorities. - Other branded cultivars
The turf industry markets many other named buffalo grasses with claims about heat tolerance, disease resistance or reduced maintenance. Your local turf supplier can tell you which branded buffalo grasses they carry.
If you’re shopping around, turf providers and landscapers will usually be able to show you photos and give local advice — and some sellers offer certified or licensed varieties to guarantee what you’re getting.
Pros and cons of buffalo grasses
Pros
- Excellent shade tolerance compared with many other warm-season lawns.
- Soft-leaf varieties feel pleasant underfoot.
- Generally drought-tolerant once established.
- Good recovery from minor wear (depending on cultivar).
- Low to moderate maintenance — many varieties don’t need as much feeding as some exotic fine lawns.
Cons
- Some buffalo types can be prone to fungal diseases (e.g., brown patch) in humid conditions if overwatered or overfertilised.
- Coarser varieties can be less “lawn-like” underfoot.
- Not all buffalo varieties tolerate heavy, constant wear (sports fields might prefer specialised grasses).
- Colour and density vary between cultivars — not every buffalo will look the same.
Which buffalo is best? — short answer
There is no single “best” buffalo for every situation. The right choice depends on your site conditions and priorities: shade, wear, appearance, maintenance and local climate.
That said, Sir Walter (and its certified forms) is often recommended as the best all-rounder for Australian suburban lawns. It strikes a solid balance of shade tolerance, cold tolerance (relative to other buffalo types), attractive appearance and straightforward maintenance — which is why it’s so widely used by homeowners and landscapers.
If your priorities differ, you might choose:
- Best for heavy shade: soft-leaf varieties such as Palmetto or Sir Walter.
- Best for high use / wear: select improved cultivars or hard-leaf types designed for durability (check product specs).
- Best for showy, dark green lawns: cultivars like Sapphire (or similar branded types) that emphasise colour and density.
- Best for lowest maintenance: look for named cultivars marketed as low-fertility/low-mow varieties.
How to choose the right buffalo variety for your yard
- Assess light and shade. If you have dense tree canopy or shaded areas, prioritise soft-leaf buffalo varieties known for shade tolerance.
- Decide on activity level. For kids, dogs and regular play, pick a cultivar with higher wear tolerance. For a decorative lawn used mainly for aesthetics, choose a finer, softer cultivar.
- Check local climate. Northern Australia’s heat and humidity may favour different cultivars than cooler southern coastal or highland areas. Ask local turf growers what performs best in your postcode.
- Ask about disease resistance. In humid regions, choose varieties with good resistance to common fungal problems and follow sensible watering and fertiliser practices.
- Compare maintenance needs. Some buffalo varieties need more frequent mowing, feeding or irrigation. If you want low maintenance, choose cultivars marketed for reduced inputs and be realistic about colour vs maintenance trade-offs.
- Buy certified or reputable turf. Purchasing licensed or DNA-certified turf (when available) helps ensure you actually get the cultivar named on the label — and the performance that comes with it.
Establishment and care — tips that work across buffalo types
- Soil preparation: Remove weeds, improve soil with organic matter if necessary, and ensure good drainage.
- Sowing or turfing: Follow supplier instructions for laying turf or overseeding. Newly laid turf needs regular watering until established.
- Mowing height: Most buffalo lawns look best at around 25–40 mm. Don’t remove more than one third of leaf height at a mow.
- Watering: Deep, infrequent watering encourages deeper roots. Avoid constant shallow watering which can promote disease.
- Fertiliser: Use a slow-release lawn fertiliser suited to buffalo grass and follow label rates. Overfeeding encourages disease.
- Pest and disease monitoring: Insect pests (e.g., lawn grubs) and fungi can affect buffalo. Early detection and correct treatment keep the lawn healthy.
- Shade management: Where shade is extreme, consider thinning lower branches of trees to allow more light — buffalo is shade tolerant but still needs some light to remain dense and healthy.
Final thoughts — matching the turf to the yard
When someone asks “which buffalo is the best?” the honest answer is: pick the one that matches your yard, activity level and maintenance appetite. For most suburban Australian lawns a versatile, soft-leaf cultivar such as Sir Walter (or its certified forms) provides a reliable, attractive, low-stress option. For specialist needs — heavy traffic, coastal salt spray, very high aesthetics — explore specific branded cultivars and talk to local suppliers.
If you’re comparing options in person, ask your turf supplier to show you sample sprigs or photo galleries of established lawns, and ask for local references. A reputable turf seller or landscaper can help you choose a cultivar that will suit your soil, shade and lifestyle.
And if you’d like expert help with selection, installation or aftercare, companies such as A View Turf and other local turf suppliers can show you which buffalo varieties perform best in your area and provide genuine, certified turf so you get what you pay for.