Bermuda Grass
Cunodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf, Pasture, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda (likely a seeded variety)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10. High heat tolerance; low cold tolerance. Enters dormancy when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
About This Grass
A low-growing, grey-green to dark green grass that forms a very dense carpet. It turns tan/brown when dormant in winter. Seed heads are distinctive finger-like spikes (3-7 branches) arranged in a whorl.
Blade Characteristics
Medium width (2-4mm), flat or slightly folded, pointed tips, folded vernation. Ligule is a fringe of white hairs; auricles are absent. Visible hairs are often present at the collar and on the upper leaf surface.
Root System
Deep and extensive fibrous root system with thick rhizomes. High thatch-forming tendency. Fast establishment speed; excellent drought tolerance and rapid wear recovery.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa and Asia; well-adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zone climates globally
Growth Habit
Highly aggressive, spreading via both rhizomes (underground) and stolons (above-ground), creating a dense, mat-forming sod
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); very poor shade tolerance. Low to moderate watering once established; high drought tolerance. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Maintain at 1.0 to 2.5 inches; high frequency (weekly). 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft per year. High maintenance; requires regular dethatching and aeration.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional traffic/wear tolerance; high salt tolerance; excellent drought recovery. Susceptible to 'Large Patch' and 'Dollar Spot' diseases.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in the US. Provides soil stabilization for erosion control. Can be invasive in gardens and mixed landscapes due to its aggressive spreading nature.