Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is a grass native to the African Savannah. It survives well in dry conditions, though the top may die off in droughts. Since it spreads easily, it is a good grass choice for dry areas where it can be watered. This grass is best grown in conditions where rainfall is heavy, however, which will keep the leaves moist and green with purple tips.
In the US, Bermuda grass was first introduced from plantings in Bermuda, and it became popular for lawns in the Southeastern US. It prospers well in most Southeastern states, but Floridians may have difficulty growing it since it is susceptible to a pest called the sting nematode.
This grass quickly recovers from damage, such as cutting, and it also tends to grown well in poor soil. When fires in the African Savanna destroy Bermuda grass, it recovers quickly, and is usually the first grass to grow back.
The long roots can make this grass very difficult to destroy without the applications of herbicides. As a result, when it invades other grasses, it can quickly become an unmanageable weed and can be the bane of people who wish lawns of a different type of grass. It also can disrupt the production of certain low growing fruits and vegetables, like strawberries and summer squash.
Fortunately, it has helpful applications in the world of farming and animal husbandry. It makes excellent grass for cattle and it also can help stem land erosion from excess rains or over-watering.
Bermuda grass also has ancient significance. It was the chosen grass used to feed the sacred cows of India. The Ancient Romans used liquid derived from the stems as a diuretic.
Modern homeopathy may include juice from Bermuda grass in mixes that are thought to reduce a person's sensitivity to allergies by including tiny amounts of known allergens. It is also thought to possibly provide relief from chronic diarrhea, and may be used as an antiseptic.
This grass is a known allergen, however, and may cause a stuffy nose or other allergy symptoms in both animals and people. As a result, it may cause more problems medicinally that it purportedly cures.
Bermuda grass, with its origins in the African Savannah, thrives in dry conditions and spreads easily, making it an excellent choice for dry areas that receive some watering. However, it flourishes best in regions with heavy rainfall, keeping its leaves lush and green with purple tips. For golf enthusiasts, Bermuda grass is a popular choice for putting greens due to its ability to recover quickly from damage and its tolerance for cutting and foot traffic.