Kikuyu grass (Pennistem clandestinum), as it is native to the highland regions of East Africa that is home to the Kikuyu people. It grows from a thick network of rhizomatous roots and sends out stolons which extend along the ground. It can climb over other plant life, shading it out and producing herbicidal toxins that kill competing plants.
Kikuyu grows in soils that are low in Calcium and Potassium. It is a sign that soil lacks organic matter and may be compacted with low porosity.
Kikuyu is also a popular garden lawn species as it is inexpensive and moderately drought tolerant.
