Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass (seeded variety)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10; excellent heat tolerance; goes dormant and turns brown below 50°F (10°C).
About This Grass
A low-growing, wiry perennial grass that forms a dense, resilient mat. In the image, it is seen as sparse, pioneering sprigs emerging from sandy soil. Color is medium to dark green during growth, turning straw-brown when dormant.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm), flat or folded blades with a sharply pointed tip. Vernation is folded. Characterized by a fringe of hairs for a ligule and small or absent auricles.
Root System
Extensive and deep fibrous root system complemented by vigorous rhizomes and stolons; high thatch tendency and rapid establishment speed.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Africa; well-adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zones globally
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and Rhizomatous (highly invasive spreading habit)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires 6-8 hours); high drought tolerance but needs regular water for lush growth; thrives in well-drained soils with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 1.0-2.0 inches; high frequency; requires 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually; high maintenance level due to rapid growth.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and recovery speed; high salt tolerance; poor shade tolerance; excellent erosion control.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America; can be invasive in gardens and native ecosystems; provides soil stabilization in sandy areas; often blended with Ryegrass for winter color.