Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass (appears to be a non-hybrid variety due to slightly coarser texture and lower density compared to Tifway)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10. Excellent heat tolerance; goes dormant and turns tan/brown when temperatures drop below 50-60 degrees F or after the first frost.
About This Grass
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial which spreads by scaly rhizomes and tough stolons. It features a medium to fine texture with a deep green color. Seed heads are typically 3-7 finger-like spikes (digitate) arranged at the top of a stem.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are 2-4mm wide, flat or slightly folded, with a pointed tip. Color ranges from medium to dark green. Vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is a fringe of short white hairs; auricles are absent; the collar is narrow and hairy at the edges.
Root System
Deep and extensive fibrous root system with both rhizomes and stolons. Moderate to high thatch producer. Quick to establish and possesses excellent wear recovery and drought tolerance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa; widely adapted to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including the Southern United States and Transition Zone.
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and Rhizomatous (spreading both above and below ground); aggressive, fast-spreading, and forms a very dense mat.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (minimum 6-8 hours); very low shade tolerance. Moderate water needs but high drought tolerance. Prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height: 0.5 - 1.5 inches. High frequency (1-2 times per week). Requires 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft per year. High maintenance level due to rapid growth and dethatching needs.
Special Characteristics
High traffic tolerance; excellent salt and drought tolerance; moderate disease resistance (susceptible to Large Patch and Spring Dead Spot). Fast recovery from damage.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in North America; provides soil stabilization for erosion control; can be invasive in gardens or landscape beds; often blended with Ryegrass for winter color.