Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Pasture, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10. Excellent heat tolerance; poor cold tolerance, going dormant when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing grass with a medium to fine texture. It forms a thick, wiry mat and turns straw-colored during winter dormancy. Seed heads are distinctive finger-like spikes arranged in a windmill pattern.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are 2-4mm wide, flat or slightly V-shaped, with a pointed tip. Color ranges from light to dark green. Vernation is folded; ligule consists of a fringe of white hairs; auricles are absent.
Root System
Deep and extensive fibrous root system with aggressive rhizomes and stolons. High thatch tendency and very fast establishment speed/recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa; widely adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zones worldwide
Growth Habit
Highly invasive; spreading by both rhizomes (underground) and stolons (above-ground)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun (minimum 6-8 hours); very low shade tolerance. High drought tolerance but requires regular water for active growth. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 0.5-1.5 inches; high frequency (weekly). 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually. Requires frequent dethatching and aeration. High maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and recovery speed. High salt tolerance. Resistant to most pests but susceptible to Large Patch and Spring Dead Spot. Extremely aggressive against weeds.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Provides soil stabilization but considered an invasive weed in gardens and native ecosystems due to aggressive spreading.