Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Sports Turf, Golf Course Grass (Fairways/Tees)
Variety / Cultivar
Tifway 419 (Hybrid Bermuda)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-11; goes dormant and turns straw-colored when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turf with a fine texture and deep green color. Forms a thick, carpet-like mat that is resilient under heavy foot traffic. Seed heads are distinctive finger-like spikes (digitate).
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (1.5-3mm), flat, pointed tips, medium to dark green. Vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is a fringe of hairs; auricles are absent.
Root System
Extremely deep and extensive fibrous system; high thatch-forming tendency; rapid establishment; excellent drought tolerance and wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
African origin; highly adapted to Southern United States and tropical/subtropical climates
Growth Habit
Highly aggressive; both Rhizomatous (underground) and Stoloniferous (above ground) spreading
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (minimum 6-8 hours); moderate watering needed for lushness; high drought tolerance; prefers pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Low mowing height (0.5 to 1.5 inches); frequent mowing (1-2 times per week); high nitrogen needs (3-5 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year); high maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Superior wear tolerance; high salt tolerance; poor shade tolerance; excellent erosion control and recovery speed.
Ecological Information
Introduced species in Americas; provides soil stabilization; can be invasive in garden beds; often overseeded with Perennial Ryegrass in winter.