SafePlants

Bermuda Grass: A Versatile Turfgrass

Bermuda grass, despite its name, has its origins in Africa and India, not Bermuda. It is a widely distributed perennial grass found in temperate and tropical regions across the globe.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cynodon dactylon (common bermudagrass); other species within the *Cynodon* genus are also commonly referred to as Bermuda Grass.
• Common Names: Bermuda grass, Bahama grass, Wire grass, Devil's grass, Couch grass, Dog's Tooth Grass.
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Synonyms and related species:
  • Cynodon nlemfuensis Vanderyst (African Bermudagrass)
  • Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt-Davy (African Bermudagrass)
  • Cynodon nlemfuensis var. robustus W.D. Clayton & Harlan
  • Cynodon nlemfuensis var. nlemfuensis Vanderyst
  • Cynodon incompletus (African Bermuda grass)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the savannas of Africa and India.
• Widely distributed in temperate and tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the USA.
• Cosmopolitan, occurring in almost every tropical and temperate region.

Ecological Role

• Bermudagrass is an aggressive, low-growing, and very persistent sod-forming turfgrass.
• It can be considered an invasive species due to its vigorous creeping habit.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Low-growing.
• Sod-forming turfgrass.
• Known to "scalp" in the heat of the summer.

Traditional and Modern Uses

• Historically used medicinally in the Transvaal region of South Africa.
• Commonly used for turf in various areas including athletic fields.
• Used in hybrid development programs to improve traits such as cold tolerance.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• UC Home and Landscape Guidelines for Control of Bermudagrass.
• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society): Information on *Cynodon incompletus*.
• USDA PLANTS Database
• Invasive Plant Atlas
• NatureServe
• CalPhotos