Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season perennial (C4 grass)
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda (likely based on broader leaf texture and visible runners)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7–10. Excellent heat tolerance; dormant below 50°F; susceptible to winter kill in extreme cold.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turfgrass with a medium-to-fine texture. It is medium-to-dark green in its active state, turning straw-colored in winter dormancy. Seed heads are distinctive bird-foot-shaped spikes (digital spikelet).
Blade Characteristics
Fine-to-medium width (1.5–3mm), flat or slightly folded, pointed tips. Gray-green to dark green color. Folded vernation, fringe of hairs for a ligule, and no auricles. Stiff blades with prominent hairs at the collar.
Root System
Deep and extensive fibrous root system with both rhizomes (underground) and stolons (above-ground). High thatch-forming tendency; rapid establishment speed and excellent wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Africa; widely naturalized in tropical, subtropical, and transition zones worldwide
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and Rhizomatous (aggressive spreading with high mat density)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires 6-8 hours); very low shade tolerance. High drought tolerance due to deep roots; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0–7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
0.5–1.5 inches for common varieties; frequent mowing required (1-2 times weekly). High fertilization (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft). High maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent traffic tolerance, high salt tolerance, and superior drought recovery. Aggressive growth allows it to crowd out most weeds, but can become invasive in garden beds.
Ecological Information
Introduced in North America; provides soil stabilization for erosion control. Low wildlife food value but provides cover; considered a noxious weed in some agricultural or native ecosystems.