The leaves attach to the stem at a 45-degree angle compared to leaves of common and Tifway Bermuda, which grow almost parallel to the stem or stolon. This 45-degree angle of growth holds the ball up for a more desirable lie and doesn't allow the ball to bury into the turf. The dwarf growth habit increased turf density, and dark green color make Yuma an exceptionally attractive turf.

Yuma has a significant advantage over other Bermudas with its increased cold and drought tolerances. Yuma's ability to develop rhizomes within the first six weeks and send them deep into the soil helps the plant escape cold temperatures and work a larger soil area for water and nutrients. Recent testing done on Yuma has shown an additional 30 days of growing season is possible with proper irrigation and fertilization. Yuma has shown that it will go into dormancy two weeks later and green up two weeks earlier than other Bermudas. The earlier spring green up is especially beneficial when transitioning from ryegrass overseeded turf back to Bermudagrass.