Bermuda grass, or Cynodon dactylon as it is scientifically known, is a perennial grass that spreads quickly through its stolons and rhizomes.
It thrives in warm regions and is commonly used in golf courses and athletic fields due to its durability and rapid recovery from intense foot traffic.
Cynodon dactylon is common in disturbed areas such as roadsides, trampled areas, gardens, overgrazed areas, localities with high levels of nitrogen, and riparian areas.
Scientific Classification
- Domain: Eukaryota
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Subkingdom: Tracheobionta
- Phylum: Spermatophyta
- Division: Magnoliophyta
- Class: Liliopsida
- Subclass: Commelinidae
- Order: Cyperales
- Family: Poaceae Barnhart
- Genus: Cynodon Rich
- Species: Cynodon dactylon
- Common Names: Bermuda grass, Bahamas grass, couch grass, star grass, devil grass, quick grass, dog’s tooth grass.
Nativity and Distribution
Bermuda grass is native to Africa. The plant is also found in the following areas:
- Asia
- North, Central, and South America
- Islands in the Pacific Ocean
- Caribbean
- Australia
Physical Appearance
- Leaves: Green to dark green leaves that grow up to 2 inches in length.
- Fruit: Small, dry fruit.
- Stems: Have a slightly hair-like appearance.
- Flowers: Pink to purple in color.
- Roots: Fibrous root system.
Cynodon dactylon has slender leaves with a fine to medium texture. Its leaf sheaths are cylindrical and smooth, while the leaf blades are flat and pointed.
The leaves are rolled in the bud and grow alternatively along the stem. Additionally, they are slender and tapered, usually 2 to 16 cm long and 1.5 to 5 mm wide.
Bermuda grass stems are flattened, numerous, and branching, with a creeping habit. Stems grow to a height of 4-6 inches, though some may reach up to 18 inches tall.
The flowering stems have three to seven flower spikes that are up to 60mm long and arranged terminally on the axis.
Life Cycle/Reproduction/Dispersal
- Life Cycle: Perennial.
- Seeds: Flat, straw-colored, and oval seeds.
- Climate: Thrives well in warm climates.
- Dispersal: Water dispersal, animals, soil movement, and human activities.
Bermuda grass’s main method of reproduction is vegetative propagation via rhizomes (underground stems) and stolons (above-ground runners).
The grass stolons root at their nodes, where lateral buds develop into upright stems that can grow between 5 and 40 cm tall.
This form of vegetative reproduction enables the grass to cover extensive areas rapidly, making it a robust and aggressive species in a variety of environments.
While seed reproduction does occur, it is less frequent in practice compared to vegetative methods, and germination is affected by factors like light and temperature variations.
Uses
Bermuda grass has the following uses:
1. Health benefits
Cynodon dactylon can help minimize blood loss from injuries and excessive menstrual bleeding by promoting red blood cell production and increasing haemoglobin levels, which helps prevent anaemia.
Bermuda grass has a hypoglycemic effect, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce fatigue. Additionally, it helps prevent disorders related to diabetes.
This grass is used to alleviate coughs and other respiratory issues. Its juice can be beneficial for mouth ulcers and bleeding gums when used as a mouthwash.
Moreover, Cynodon dactylon aids in detoxifying the body by eliminating toxins. It is also effective in managing acidity and regulating bowel movements.
2. Prevents soil erosion
The plant’s extensive root system forms a robust network that stabilizes the soil and prevents erosion during heavy rainfall.
Additionally, the dense foliage serves as a protective barrier against erosive forces, safeguarding the soil surface.
Other uses of Bermuda grass include:
- It is used as feed for livestock.
- It is used as a lawn in golf courses and residential areas.
- It is used to enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
Impact on Environment
Bermuda grass is known for its rapid and persistent growth, which can cause it to spread aggressively and become a problematic invasive species.
Its vigorous growth allows it to outcompete and displace native plants, diminishing biodiversity and negatively impacting the balance of local ecosystems.
Control
You can control Bermuda grass through these methods:
1. Mulching and Solarization
A black polythene can be placed over Bermuda grass to block sunlight from reaching the plants, effectively managing even well-established ones.
To achieve this process:
- First, mow the Bermuda grass short and water the area.
- Cover it with a clear plastic tarp, securing the edges with weights such as cinder blocks.
- Keep it in place for 6-8 weeks during the hot summer months.
- The heat that accumulates under the plastic will eliminate the grass and any viable seeds.
2. Chemical Control
Glyphosate-based herbicides, such as Roundup, can be utilized for spot treatments on Bermuda grass in lawns, but they will also eliminate desirable grass species.
For selective control of Cynodon dactylon without harming other grasses, herbicides containing fluazifop-P-butyl or sethoxydim are recommended, though multiple applications may be necessary.
Other post-emergent herbicides that control Bermuda grass include:
- Sethoxydim
- Fluazifop (found in products like Fusilade, Ornamec, and Grass-B-Gon)
- Clethodim (Envoy)
- Triclopyr
- Atrazine
Use these weed control mechanisms to eliminate weeds from Bermuda grass if you intend to have it on your lawn.
Carla is a student pursuing a B.S in Agricultural Systems Technology. With a passion for landscaping for over 4 years, Carla loves plants. She has previously contributed to several other sites in the space before joining InsightWeeds.