Bermudagrass blades are a grey-green color and are short, usually 2-15 centimetres (0.79-5.9 in) long with rough edges. The erect stems can grow 1-30 centimetres (0.39-12 in) tall. The stems are slightly flattened, often tinged purple in colour. The seed heads are produced in a cluster of 2-6 spikes together at the top of the stem, each spike 2-5 centimetres (0.79-2.0 in) long.

It has a deep root system; in drought situations with penetrable soil, the root system can grow to over 2 m deep, though most of the root mass is less than 60 cm under the surface. The grass creeps along the ground and root wherever a node touches the ground, forming a dense mat. Bermudagrass reproduces through seeds, through runners and rhizomes. Growth begins at temperatures above 15°C (59°F) with optimum growth between 24 to 37°C (75 to 99°F); in winter the grass becomes dormant and turns brown. Growth is promoted by full sun and retarded by full shade, e.g., close to tree trunks.