Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass (likely)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10; excellent heat tolerance; enters dormancy when temperatures drop below 50°F; susceptible to winter kill in northern latitudes.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turf grass with a medium-to-fine texture. It turns brown and goes dormant in winter/colder temperatures. Seed heads are distinctive, shaped like a bird's foot with 3-7 spikes radiating from a single point.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width is medium to fine (2-4mm), flat or folded in the bud, with a pointed tip. Color is typically medium to dark green. It features a fringe of hairs for a ligule and has no auricles. Vernation is folded.
Root System
Extensive and deep fibrous root system combined with vigorous rhizomes and stolons; creates a dense sod with moderate-to-high thatch tendency and excellent drought tolerance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Africa; widely naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, particularly in the Southern US.
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous and Stoloniferous; highly aggressive with a rapid spreading rate and mat-forming tendency.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (minimal shade tolerance, requires 6-8 hours direct sun); low-to-moderate water needs once established; high drought tolerance; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 1.0-2.0 inches; high frequency required during peak summer; 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year; requires periodic dethatching; Medium to High maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and recovery speed; high salt tolerance; poor shade tolerance; excellent erosion control and competitive against weeds when healthy.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America; provides cover for small wildlife but can be invasive in gardens and native ecosystems; excellent for soil stabilization and water filtration in turf settings; often used as a monoculture or overseeded with Ryegrass.