Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, Chloridoideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda (vibrant green, medium texture)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10. High heat tolerance; goes dormant and turns straw-colored after first hard frost.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing grass with a fine-to-medium texture. It turns brown/dormant in winter and provides a thick, carpet-like turf in summer. Deep green color when well-fertilized. Seed heads are distinctive finger-like spikes.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width 2-4mm, pointed tip, folded vernation. Ligule is a fringe of hairs. Auricles are absent. Typically grey-green to dark green.
Root System
Deep and extensive fibrous root system with both underground rhizomes and surface stolons. High thatch tendency with rapid establishment and excellent wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Africa and Asia; well-adapted to the Southern United States and Transition Zone
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and Rhizomatous (highly aggressive spreading)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours). High drought tolerance but requires deep watering during summer for color. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 1.0 - 2.0 inches for common varieties. High maintenance level. High nitrogen needs (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year). Requires regular aeration.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance, high salt tolerance, and high drought recovery. Low shade tolerance (will thin out under trees). Great for sports fields.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in the Americas. High soil stabilization/erosion control value. Can be invasive in flower beds. Often blended with Ryegrass for winter color.