African couch grass (Cynodon incompletus)
Care, watering, light and tips for African couch grass on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Poaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About African couch grass
Cynodon incompletus, commonly known as "African Bermuda-grass," is a perennial, vigorous, creeping grass that forms dense mats. Its fine, bright green leaves make it ideal for low-maintenance lawns in warm climates or for erosion control on sunny slopes.
Native range
Southern Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and is highly drought-tolerant once established. Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent fungal diseases. It prefers well-drained, even sandy, soils and is not demanding regarding nutrients. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot and pest infestations.
How to save a dying African couch grass
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown leaves, stunted growth, dry patches.
- First aid
- Deep watering if soil is dry; aerate lawn to improve drainage and oxygen.
- What kills it
- Severe soil compaction, extreme over or under-watering, or incorrect herbicide application.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if addressed promptly. Remove dead areas and improve soil conditions.