Identifying "Pos Pollen" Grass: It's Seashore Paspalum

Reader Observation: Impressive Lawn at Marco Island Marriott

A St. Petersburg, FL resident saw a lush, short-trimmed, salt-tolerant grass at a Marco Island hotel. Told it was "Pos Pollen" (likely misspelled), wants details.

Identification: Seashore Paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum)

This is a breakthrough warm-season grass for coastal and saline environments. Key cultivars:

• Sea Isle 1 & 2000: Thrive on saltwater irrigation; damaged by freshwater.
• Salam, Sea Dwarf, Aloha: Other improved varieties.

Where It's Used

• Jupiter Dunes Golf Club (FL)
• Tower Links Golf Course (UAE) – replaced Bermudagrass
• Crown Colony Country Club
• Increasingly on coastal lawns, sports fields, and roadsides

Critical Considerations

• Salt requirement: Performs best with brackish/saline water. Freshwater can cause decline.
• Establishment: Sod, sprigs, or plugs. Not typically seeded.
• Maintenance: Lower nitrogen needs than Bermuda; mowing height 0.5–1.5 inches.
• Shade tolerance: Moderate—needs 6+ hours sun.
• Cold tolerance: Limited; best in Zones 9–11.

Is It Right for Your St. Petersburg Lawn?

If you have irrigation with reclaimed or brackish water and full sun, it's worth exploring. For typical freshwater irrigation, St. Augustine or Zoysia may be more reliable. Consult a local sod farm or UF/IFAS Extension for site-specific advice.