Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · 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
Common Bermuda or Hybrid (likely 'Tifway' or similar, based on density and texture)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10; excellent heat tolerance; poor cold tolerance; goes dormant and turns tan/brown when temperatures drop below 50°F.
About This Grass
A low-growing, highly dense turfgrass with a fine to medium texture. Color ranges from gray-green to dark blue-green. It enters dormant light-brown state in winter. Seed heads are distinctive 3-7 finger-like spikes.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width is fine to medium (1.5-4mm), folded in the bud (folded vernation), tip is sharply pointed. Ligule is a fringe of hairs. Auricles are absent. Visible short hairs often present at the leaf base/collar.
Root System
Deep and extensive root system utilizing both surface stolons and deep underground rhizomes; high thatch tendency; fast establishment; excellent drought avoidance and wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa and Asia; widely adapted to tropical and subtropical climates, as well as the transition zone of the United States.
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and rhizomatous; highly aggressive and fast-spreading, forming a dense, durable mat.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (minimum 6-8 hours); high drought tolerance; requires moderate watering during heat for best aesthetics; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 0.5 to 1.5 inches; high frequency required (1-2 times per week); 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft per year; high maintenance level needing annual aeration and dethatching.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance for foot traffic; high salt tolerance; high drought recovery; susceptible to Large Patch (Rhizoctonia) and Spring Dead Spot; very poor shade tolerance.
Ecological Information
Introduced in North America; provides soil stabilization for erosion control; can be invasive in gardens/flower beds; often stoloniferous enough to outcompete most weeds in full sun.