Bermuda grass

The blades are grey-green in color and short, usually 2–15 cm (0.79–5.91 in) long with rough edges. The erect stems can grow 1–30 cm (0.39–11.81 in) tall. The stems are slightly flattened, often white or green, and occasionally tinged purple in colour. The seed heads are produced in a cluster of two to six spikes together at the top of the stem, each spike 2–5 cm (0.79–1.97 in) long. Cynodon dactylon has a deep root system. When grown in penetrable soil under drought conditions, its roots can grow to over 2 metres (6.6 ft) deep, though most of the root mass is less than 60 centimetres (24 in) under the surface. The grass creeps along the ground with its stolons and roots wherever a node touches the ground, forming a dense mat. C. dactylon reproduces through seeds, stolons, and rhizomes. The grass starts actively growing at temperatures above 15 °C (59 °F) with ideal growth between 24 and 37 °C (75 and 99 °F); in winter or in the dry season, the grass becomes dormant and turns light brown. Optimal development also occurs in areas of full sun exposure, while dense shade, especially near tree bases, generally suppresses it.

In Mexico, the plant may have been used during the 20th century as a decoction intended to treat various illnesses.

Cynodon dactylon is widely cultivated in warm climates all over the world between about 30° S and 30° N latitude, and in regions that receive between 625 and 1,750 mm (24.6 and 68.9 in) of rainfall a year, or less, if irrigation is available. For example, in the United States, it is grown mostly in the southern half of the country.

Cultivars. Hundreds of cultivars have been created specifically for environmental tolerance and stakeholder requirements. New cultivars are released annually.