SafePlants

Bermuda Grass: A Versatile Turfgrass

Bermuda grass, despite its name, is not native to Bermuda but rather originates from the savannas of Africa and India. It's a popular choice for turfgrass in many regions and is known for its resilience and aggressive growth.

Considerations for Pets

• Bermuda grass is a low-growing grass, which might make it more attractive to pets.
• It's a common turfgrass, so pets are likely to encounter it in lawns and parks.

Considerations for Children

• Bermuda grass is a common turfgrass, so children are likely to encounter it in lawns and parks.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Cynodon dactylon (Common Bermudagrass), Cynodon nlemfuensis (African Bermudagrass), Cynodon transvaalensis (African Bermudagrass)
• Common Names: Bermuda grass, Bahama grass, Wire grass, Devil's grass, Couch grass, Dog's Tooth Grass, African Dog's-tooth Grass
• Family: Poaceae
• Synonyms/Varieties:
  • Cynodon nlemfuensis var. robustus
  • Cynodon nlemfuensis var. nlemfuensis
  • Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon

Distribution and Habitat

Bermuda grass has a wide distribution range, occurring in the temperate and tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the USA. It thrives in open areas and savannas.

Ecological Role

• Bermuda grass is known for its aggressive growth and can be considered an invasive species in some regions.
• Its vigorous creeping habit makes it a persistent sod-forming turfgrass.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Bermuda grass is a perennial grass with a low-growing habit.
• It's known for its aggressive, sod-forming growth.
• It is known for scalping in the heat.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Bermuda grass is sometimes used in hybridizations with other grass species, such as stargrass, to develop improved turfgrass varieties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

• In the Transvaal region of South Africa, European descendants have traditionally used crushed bermudagrass mixed with sodium bicarbonate for heartburn relief.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• RHS: Provides help and information on Cynodon incompletus (African Bermuda grass).
• UC Home and Landscape Guidelines: Offers guidelines for controlling Bermudagrass.
• USDA PLANTS Database: Provides information on Cynodon nlemfuensis var. nlemfuensis.
• Invasive Plant Atlas: Further information on Cynodon nlemfuensis.
• NatureServe: Resource for African Dog's-tooth Grass