Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, subfamily Chloridoideae, tribe Cynodonteae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass (indicated by medium texture and density reaching reproductive stage in lower-mow areas)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-10. High heat and salt tolerance; goes into dormancy when soil temperatures drop below 50-55°F.
About This Grass
A low-growing, dense turf grass with a medium-to-fine texture. It displays a gray-green to dark green color during active growth, turning tan/brown during winter dormancy. It forms a thick, resilient sod.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm), flat or folded, with a sharp pointed tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. Color is medium to dark green. Features a fringe of hairs for a ligule and lacks auricles.
Root System
Deep and extensive fibrous root system with both underground rhizomes and surface stolons. High thatch-forming tendency; established quickly; excellent wear recovery and high drought tolerance.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa; widely adapted to tropical, subtropical, and transition zone regions worldwide
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous and Stoloniferous; highly aggressive with a rapid rate of spread and dense mat-forming habit
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires 6-8 hours direct light); low shade tolerance. High heat tolerance; moderate watering needs once established. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0-7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Mowing height 0.5-1.5 inches; high frequency required during peak summer. Fertilization: 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually. Requires periodic dethatching (verticutting) and aeration. High maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear and traffic tolerance; high drought recovery; excellent salt tolerance. Prone to Dollar Spot and Large Patch if over-watered. Highly effective at crowding out weeds when healthy.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Highly effective for soil stabilization and erosion control. Can be invasive in garden beds or non-target areas. Often overseeded with Perennial Ryegrass in winter.