Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, Chloridoideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Sports Turf, Pasture, and Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda (likely a seeded variety based on coarser texture)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-11; high heat and drought tolerance; goes dormant and turns brown below 50°F (10°C).
About This Grass
Dense, low-growing turf with a wiry texture. Light to dark green color, turning straw-colored in winter dormancy. Forms a thick mat via stolons (above ground) and rhizomes (below ground).
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm), flat or slightly folded, pointed tips, light green color. Vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is a fringe of hairs; auricles are absent.
Root System
Extremely deep fibrous root system with extensive rhizomes; high thatch-forming tendency; very fast establishment speed and excellent recovery from wear.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa; widely adapted in Tropical and Subtropical regions, including the Southern United States
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous and Stoloniferous (very aggressive spreading habit)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); low to moderate water needs once established; high drought tolerance; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
1.0 to 2.5 inches for common varieties; frequent mowing required; 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually; high maintenance level for elite appearance.
Special Characteristics
Excellent traffic tolerance; high salt tolerance; poor shade tolerance; rapid recovery from injury; susceptible to Spring Dead Spot and Dollar Spot.
Ecological Information
Introduced species; provides soil stabilization for erosion control; can be invasive in gardens/flower beds; often blended with Ryegrass for winter color.