Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda (likely based on density and texture)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10. Excellent heat tolerance; enters dormancy and turns brown when soil temperatures drop below 55°F.
About This Grass
A fine to medium-textured grass with a light to medium green color. It exhibits a low-growing, prostrate habit. In the image, it is seen in a partial dormant or semi-dormant state common in early spring, showing a mix of brownish-tan dormant blades and fresh green growth.
Blade Characteristics
Blade width is medium (2-4mm). Blades are flat or slightly v-shaped with a sharply pointed tip. Vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is a fringe of white hairs; auricles are absent.
Root System
Deep fibrous root system with extensive rhizomes and stolons. High thatch-forming tendency and rapid establishment speed. Excellent drought tolerance and wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa; widely adapted to the Southern United States and tropical/subtropical regions globally.
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and Rhizomatous; aggressive spreading habit forming a dense, low-growing mat.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (minimum 6-8 hours); very poor shade tolerance. Low to moderate water needs once established; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0 to 7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal mowing height: 0.5 to 1.5 inches. Mowing frequency: high (1-2 times per week during peak growth). Maintenance level: High (requires regular fertilization and nitrogen, 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year).
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and salt tolerance. Ability to crowd out weeds due to aggressive growth. Poor shade tolerance but high recovery speed from damage.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in North America; provides soil stabilization for erosion control but can be invasive in garden beds or non-target areas. Low value for most wildlife except as cover.