BERMUDA GRASS OR DURVA GRASS (CYNODON DACTYLON)
Cynodon dactylon, commonly known as Bermuda grass, Dhub grass, or Durva grass, is a perennial grass belonging to the Poaceae family. It is known by various names across different regions and languages, including couch grass, devil's grass, and dog's tooth grass.
Characteristics and morphology
Cynodon dactylon is a creeping herb with slender, prostrate, widely spreading stems that root at the nodes, forming dense mats. Its leaves are linear or lanceolate, typically 2-10 cm long and 1.25-3 mm wide. The erect stems (culms) can grow up to 130 cm long. It reproduces through seeds, stolons (runners), and rhizomes.
Uses and significance
- Erosion Control: Its dense growth makes it useful for controlling soil erosion.
- Traditional Medicine: In various traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, it's used to treat a variety of ailments like cough, headache, diarrhea, skin diseases, and wound healing.
- Cynodon dactylon, while a valuable grass for lawns, forage, and medicinal purposes, requires careful management in agricultural settings due to its potential to become a troublesome weed.
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