Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Pasture, Sports Turf, Erosion Control, and occasionally Invasive Weed
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass (non-hybrid phenotype)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10. High heat tolerance; goes dormant and turns tan/brown after the first frost.
About This Grass
A low-growing, wiry grass with a grey-green to deep green color. Under no-mow conditions, it can reach 6-12 inches. It becomes dormant and turns brown when temperatures drop below 50°F. Seed heads are distinctive finger-like spikes (3-7 branches).
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm), flat or slightly folded blades with a pointed tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. Ligule is a fringe of short white hairs; auricles are absent.
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system with aggressive rhizomes. High thatch-forming tendency and rapid establishment speed. Excellent wear recovery and drought survival.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa; widely adapted to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, especially the southern United States.
Growth Habit
Highly aggressive growth via both rhizomes (underground) and stolons (above-ground). Forms a dense, mat-like sod.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); very low shade tolerance. Moderate water needs but high drought tolerance. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 0.5-1.5 inches for turf; requires frequent mowing (1-2 times weekly) during peak growth. Fertilization: 2-4 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year. High maintenance for high-quality turf.
Special Characteristics
Excellent traffic/wear tolerance, high salt tolerance, and superior drought recovery. Known for its ability to crowd out weeds but can become invasive in flower beds.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Provides soil stabilization for erosion control; serves as forage for livestock. Can be invasive in riparian areas or managed landscapes.