Bermuda Grass (Common or Hybrid)
Cynodon dactylon (Common) or Cynodon dactylon x C. transvaalensis (Hybrid) · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Chloridoideae, Tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Golf Course Grass, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Likely a common bermuda variant or a hybrid such as 'Tifway 419' based on the medium-fine texture and dense lateral growth visible.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10. High heat tolerance; goes into complete dormancy when soil temperatures drop below 50-55°F.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turf with a wiry texture. Color ranges from light to dark green but turns tan/straw-brown during winter dormancy. Forms a thick sod via aggressive runners.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width is fine to medium (1.5-3mm). Shape is flat with a distinct taper to a sharp, pointed tip. Color is a grayish-green in this specimen. Vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is a fringe of short hairs; auricles are absent.
Root System
Extremely deep and extensive fibrous root system with both underground rhizomes and surface stolons. High thatch-forming tendency; very fast establishment and excellent recovery from wear.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa; widely adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zones worldwide.
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and Rhizomatous; extremely aggressive spreading with high density and tight mat-forming qualities.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (6-8+ hours minimum); poor shade tolerance. Low to moderate water needs once established; highly drought-tolerant but goes dormant to survive extended dry periods. Prefers pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 0.5 to 1.5 inches; frequent mowing required (1-2 times per week). High fertilization needs (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft/year). Requires regular dethatching and aeration. High maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent traffic and wear tolerance; high salt tolerance; superior drought recovery. Susceptible to Large Patch (Rhizoctonia) and Spring Dead Spot.
Ecological Information
Introduced in the Americas; excellent for soil stabilization and erosion control. Can be invasive in gardens and flower beds due to aggressive rhizomes. Often used in mixes with Ryegrass for winter color.