Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda (v. dactylon)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10; high heat tolerance; enters dormancy below 50°F (10°C); poor cold tolerance in northern climates.
About This Grass
A low-growing, dense, gray-green grass that forms a thick sod. It turns straw-brown during winter dormancy. When unmowed, it produces terminal spikes of 3-7 finger-like seed heads. Texture varies from coarse in common varieties to fine in hybrids.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are 2-4mm wide (medium texture), flat or slightly folded, with a sharply pointed tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. The ligule is a fringe of white hairs; auricles are absent. The leaf color typically ranges from light to medium green with occasional dull gray-green tones.
Root System
Extensive and deep root system with both underground rhizomes and surface stolons. Forms heavy thatch; exhibits very fast establishment and high recovery from wear.
Growing Information
Origin Region
African and Asian origin; naturalized globally in climates with hot summers (subtropical and tropical regions)
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous and Stoloniferous; highly aggressive, creeping growth forming a dense, low-growing mat
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires 6-8 hours direct light); low shade tolerance. High drought tolerance once established but prefers consistent moisture for optimal green color. Thrives in pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
1.0 to 2.5 inches for common varieties; requires frequent mowing during peak summer growth. High fertilization needs (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year). Requires regular aeration and dethatching.
Special Characteristics
Excellent traffic and wear tolerance; high salt tolerance; exceptional drought recovery; capable of crowding out most weeds due to aggressive lateral growth; susceptible to Large Patch and Spring Dead Spot diseases.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in the Americas; excellent for soil erosion control on slopes; can be invasive in gardens and non-turf areas; provides moderate cover for small ground-dwelling wildlife.