Kentucky Bluegrass (predominant lawn grass in image)
Poa pratensis · Cool-season, Perennial, C3 grass
Grass Family
Poaceae, Pooideae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass
Variety / Cultivar
Common lawn mix variety (not specifically identifiable, but appears to be a standard turf-type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3-7; excellent cold tolerance, poor heat tolerance in the Deep South.
About This Grass
A dense, low-growing turf grass with a soft texture. It displays a rich emerald to dark green color, appearing somewhat darker than the broadleaf weeds (Plantain) scattered within it. In this lawn setting, it is maintained at a typical residential height.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm); V-shaped or flat; distinctive 'boat-shaped' leaf tips; dark green color; folded vernation in the bud; membranous ligule; no auricles.
Root System
Spreads via a system of rhizomes; has a moderate root depth that forms a thick, durable sod; moderate establishment speed but excellent recovery from wear due to rhizomes.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Europe, North Asia, and Morocco; widely naturalized in North America and temperate regions worldwide.
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading via underground stems), forming a dense, sod-forming mat.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to very light shade; prefers 6+ hours of sun. Requires moderate to high water; low drought tolerance compared to fescues, often going dormant (browning) in summer without irrigation.
Mowing & Maintenance
Maintenance height 2.0-3.5 inches; high frequency; requires 2-4 lbs N per 1000 sq ft annually; high maintenance level due to water and fertilizer needs.
Special Characteristics
Excellent traffic and wear tolerance; high ability to self-repair via rhizomes; susceptible to leaf spot and dollar spot; used in home lawns and athletic fields.
Ecological Information
Introduced and naturalized in North America; provides forage for various insects and small mammals; common companion includes Perennial Ryegrass and Fine Fescue. Note: The image shows significant infestation of Broadleaf Plantain (Plantago major), a common weed indicator of compacted soil.