Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Sports Turf, Golf Course Grass, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda or Hybrid (likely 'Tifway' or similar based on density)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10; excellent heat tolerance, poor cold tolerance (goes dormant below 50-60°F soil temp).
About This Grass
A low-growing, aggressive spreader with a medium to fine texture. Typically dark green during active growth, turning tan/dormant in winter. Very dense canopy when maintained regularly.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (1.5-3mm), flat or slightly folded, pointed tip, light to dark green. Vernation is folded, ligule is a fringe of hairs, and auricles are absent.
Root System
Deep, extensive fibrous root system paired with aggressive rhizomes. High thatch tendency, fast establishment, and exceptional drought tolerance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Africa and Asia; widely adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zones worldwide
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous and Stoloniferous; highly aggressive, forming a very dense mat-forming sod
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (6-8+ hours); poor shade tolerance. Moderate water needs but high drought survival once established. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
0.5 to 1.5 inches for hybrids, up to 2.5 for common. High frequency; 2-4 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year. High maintenance; frequent aerating/dethatching required.
Special Characteristics
Superior wear and traffic tolerance, high salt tolerance, rapid recovery from damage. Susceptible to Large Patch and Spring Dead Spot.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. High soil stabilization value for erosion control, can be invasive in garden beds, often used in southern pastures.