Description

• Cynodon dactylon, commonly known as Bermuda grass or couch grass, is a low-growing, perennial grass in the grass family (Poaceae). It spreads rapidly by creeping above-ground stolons and underground rhizomes, forming dense mats. Its narrow, grey-green to bright green leaves grow along wiry stems, and its flower heads consist of several slender spikes radiating from a central point like the fingers of a hand. It is highly drought-tolerant and is widely used for lawns, pastures, and ground cover.

Range

• Cynodon dactylon is generally considered native to parts of Africa, Asia, and southern Europe, although its original range is complicated by centuries of human dispersal. It is now widespread throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Mexico. It is established in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• It grows in sunny, open environments, including grasslands, lawns, roadsides, agricultural fields, coastal areas, and disturbed ground. It tolerates heat, drought, trampling, and a wide range of soil conditions, spreading particularly well in open sites where its creeping stems can root at the nodes.