Compare Australia's top-rated soft leaf buffalo varieties. From Sir Walter to Palmetto, discover which turf suits your climate, shade conditions, and lifestyle.
Australia's most trusted soft leaf buffalo grass options, perfect for homes, sports fields, and commercial landscapes.
| Variety | Shade Tolerance | Drought Tolerance | Wear Resistance | Rating | Price Guide | Action |
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Buffalo grass has become Australia's most popular lawn choice, and for good reason. As a soft leaf variety that thrives in our unique climate conditions, buffalo grass offers Australian homeowners an ideal combination of beauty, durability, and low maintenance. Whether you're establishing a new lawn in Sydney, reviving tired turf in Brisbane, or seeking a drought-resistant solution in Adelaide, understanding the different buffalo grass varieties available in 2026 can help you make the best decision for your property.
Buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum secundatum) is a warm-season grass that has been specifically bred and selected for Australian conditions. Unlike traditional grass varieties, soft leaf buffalo offers exceptional shade tolerance—some varieties can thrive with as little as 3 hours of direct sunlight per day. This makes it perfect for backyards with established trees or properties surrounded by multi-storey homes.
Key benefits of buffalo grass include:
Sir Walter Buffalo remains Australia's number one selling turf variety, known for its deep green colour, soft leaf blade, and proven performance across all Australian climate zones. It offers excellent shade tolerance and remarkable self-repair capabilities, making it ideal for family homes.
Palmetto Buffalo is renowned for its exceptional shade tolerance—one of the highest among buffalo varieties. It features a fine leaf texture and maintains its colour well during winter dormancy, making it popular in cooler southern regions.
Sapphire Buffalo is a premium soft leaf variety that offers a finer texture and deeper blue-green colour. It's particularly suited to homeowners seeking a more manicured, golf course-style appearance.
Australia's diverse climate zones mean that no single buffalo grass variety is perfect for every location. In tropical Queensland, varieties with better humidity tolerance perform well. For Melbourne's cooler winters, look for buffalo grass with good cold tolerance and winter colour retention. Coastal properties should consider salt-tolerant varieties that can handle sea spray and sandy soils.
For best results when establishing your new buffalo lawn, prepare your soil thoroughly by removing debris and adding quality lawn soil if needed. Water new turf daily for the first two weeks, then gradually reduce frequency as roots establish. Apply a quality slow-release fertiliser in spring and autumn to maintain that lush green appearance. Mow regularly at a height of 30-50mm, never removing more than one-third of the leaf blade at once.
With proper care, your buffalo grass lawn will provide years of enjoyment, adding value to your property and creating the perfect outdoor space for your family. Use our interactive comparison tools and quiz above to find the perfect buffalo grass variety for your specific needs, then explore our trusted product recommendations to get started on your lawn transformation journey.