Kentucky Bluegrass
Poa pratensis · Cool-season (C3), Perennial
Grass Family
Poaceae, Subfamily Pooideae, Tribe Poeae
Grass Category
Lawn/Turf Grass, Sports Turf, Golf Course Fairway
Variety / Cultivar
Likely a modern high-density turf cultivar like 'Midnight' or 'Mazama' based on dark green color and fine texture observed in the base layer.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 2-7; excellent cold tolerance but struggles in the deep south; enters dormancy/turns brown in extreme winter or summer heat.
About This Grass
A dark, lush green grass forming a dense carpet. The image shows a base of established turf with lighter green, elongated new growth or 'runners' reaching upward. Known for a medium-fine texture and high aesthetic quality.
Blade Characteristics
Fine to medium width (2-4mm), V-shaped or flat, featuring a distinct boat-shaped (keeled) tip. Vernation is folded in the bud; ligule is short and membranous; auricles are absent.
Root System
Relatively shallow fibrous root system with extensive horizontal rhizomes. Slow to establish from seed but forms a tight sod with moderate thatch tendency.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Europe, North Asia, and Northern Africa; widely adapted to temperate climates globally.
Growth Habit
Rhizomatous (spreading underground), forming a dense, self-repairing sod.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred (minimum 6 hours); moderate to high water needs; goes dormant during severe drought or high heat to protect the crown.
Mowing & Maintenance
Ideal height 2.0 to 3.0 inches; requires frequent mowing during spring/fall peaks; fertilization 3-5 lbs N/1000 sq ft/year; medium-high maintenance level.
Special Characteristics
Excellent wear tolerance and recovery due to rhizomes; highly prized for appearance; high salt sensitivity; moderate disease resistance to leaf spot and dollar spot.
Ecological Information
Introduced and naturalized in North America; provides soil stabilization via rhizomes; host plant for several butterfly larvae (skippers); often mixed with Perennial Ryegrass for faster 'nurse' establishment.