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 (appears to be a non-hybrid variety based on leaf texture and presence of some visible seed-head stalks)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 7-11. Excellent heat tolerance; moderate cold tolerance (goes dormant below 50°F).
About This Grass
A low-growing, highly resilient turf grass with a medium to fine texture. It is medium-green in summer and turns a tan/brown straw color during winter dormancy. It forms a thick sod capable of handling heavy foot traffic.
Blade Characteristics
Blades are typically 2-4mm wide (medium texture), flat, with a sharp-pointed tip. Vernation is folded in the bud. The ligule is a fringe of white hairs; auricles are absent. The leaf surface often has sparse hairs near the base.
Root System
Extensive and deep root system with both spreading stolons and deep rhizomes. Forms heavy thatch over time. High establishment speed and incredible drought tolerance due to depth.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Africa and Asia; widely naturalized in tropical, subtropical, and transition zones globally
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and rhizomatous; spreads aggressively above and below ground to form a dense, low-growing mat
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full Sun (requires at least 6-8 hours); very low shade tolerance. Moderate water needs but high drought survival. Prefers well-drained soil with pH 6.0 to 7.0.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 1.0 to 2.0 inches for common varieties. High frequency mowing required due to fast growth. Needs 2-4 lbs Nitrogen per 1000 sq ft annually. Regular dethatching/verticutting recommended.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional wear tolerance and recovery speed. High salt tolerance. Can become invasive in garden beds. Highly resistant to many common pests but susceptible to Large Patch in wet conditions.
Ecological Information
Introduced/Naturalized in North America. Provides soil stabilization for erosion control. Low wildlife food value but provides cover for small insects. Often used as a mono-culture but can be overseeded with Ryegrass in winter.