Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Pasture, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass (appears to be a common or seed-type variety based on leaf texture and low density)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-11. Excellent heat tolerance; poor cold tolerance (goes dormant at first frost).
About This Grass
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial. It has a light to medium green color and becomes dormant (turning straw-brown) in winter. The texture is medium-coarse in common varieties. Seed heads are distinctively finger-like spikes.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are 2-4mm wide (medium texture), flat or folded, with a pointed tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. The ligule is a fringe of hairs; auricles are absent. The collar is narrow and may have long hairs on the edges.
Root System
Extensive fibrous root system with deep rhizomes; forms a dense sod but can produce heavy thatch. Very fast establishment speed via runners.
Growing Information
Origin Region
African origin; widely adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zones worldwide
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and Rhizomatous (aggressive spreading through above-ground runners and underground stems)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours). Very poor shade tolerance (seen thinning in the image shadow). High drought tolerance; prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
1.0 - 2.5 inches for common varieties. High frequency during summer growth. High fertilization needs (2-4 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year). Requires periodic dethatching.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear and traffic tolerance; high salt tolerance; rapid recovery from damage; poor shade tolerance; can be invasive in flower beds.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Provides soil stabilization for erosion control; minimal wildlife food value but provides cover; often blended with Ryegrass for winter color.