Bermuda Grass
Cynodon dactylon · Warm-season, Perennial, C4 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, Chloridoideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Invasive/Weed Grass, Erosion Control
Variety / Cultivar
Common Bermuda Grass
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 7-10; excellent heat tolerance; poor cold tolerance; enters dormancy below 50-60°F.
About This Grass
A low-growing, grey-green grass that forms a dense, mat-like sod through rapid spreading. It goes dormant (turning brown) in winter or during extreme drought. In its unmowed state, it produces upright flower stalks with a 'finger-like' seed head.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-3mm), flat or slightly folded, with a distinctive pointed tip. Gray-green to dark green color, rolled in the bud, fringe of hairs for a ligule, and no auricles.
Root System
Extremely deep and extensive fibrous root system with aggressive underground rhizomes. High thatch tendency and very fast establishment speed.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa and Southern Europe; widely naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions globally
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous and Stoloniferous (highly aggressive spreading)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); high drought tolerance due to deep roots but prefers regular moisture for green color; prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil.
Mowing & Maintenance
1.0 - 2.0 inches height; frequent mowing; requires high nitrogen fertilization (2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft/year); moderate maintenance.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and traffic recovery; high salt tolerance; poor shade tolerance; can become a stubborn weed in gardens.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Invasive in many regions; provides excellent soil stabilization for erosion control; minimal wildlife food value but provides cover.