Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Pasture/Forage Grass, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass (appears to be a non-hybrid or naturalized common variety based on medium-coarse texture and visible purplish stems)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10. High heat tolerance; low cold tolerance. Enters dormancy when soil temperatures drop below 55°F (13°C).
About This Grass
A low-growing, wiry grass that forms a thick, carpet-like surface. It is medium to dark green in color during active growth, turning tan/brown during winter dormancy. The plant features sprawling stems with visible nodes that take root easily.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are medium width (2-4mm), flat or slightly folded, with a pointed tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. The ligule is a fringe of short white hairs; auricles are absent. Leaves are often sparsely hairy on the upper surface.
Root System
Deep, extensive root system (reaching up to 6 feet in sandy soils) with vigorous rhizomes. High thatch-forming tendency and very fast establishment speed. Excellent wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa and Southern Europe; highly adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zones worldwide
Growth Habit
Highly aggressive growth via both rhizomes (underground) and stolons (above ground), forming a dense, mat-forming sod
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); poor shade tolerance. Low to moderate watering needs; highly drought-tolerant but goes dormant during extreme dry periods. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 1.0-2.0 inches (common variety); frequency weekly or more during peak summer. Fertilization 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year. High maintenance due to rapid growth and thatch buildup requiring frequent vertical mowing and aeration.
Special Characteristics
Superior wear and traffic tolerance, excellent salt tolerance, high drought recovery, but very poor shade tolerance. Can be considered an invasive weed in ornamental beds due to aggressive spreading.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in the Americas; provides high soil stabilization and erosion control. Limited wildlife value for food, though it provides cover. Often used as a mono-culture but can be overseeded with Perennial Ryegrass in winter.